Methods and kits for co-administration of nutritional supplements

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to methods of co-administration of various vitamin and mineral compositions, and in a specific embodiment, said methods comprise co-administering one composition comprising vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B 1 , vitamin B 2 , vitamin B 6 , vitamin B 12 , niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and/or copper, and a second composition comprising omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA, to supplement the nutritional needs of individuals within physiologically stressful states; and kits provided for co-administration of various vitamin and mineral compositions, and in a specific embodiment, said kits comprise one composition comprising vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B 1 , vitamin B 2 , vitamin B 6 , vitamin B 12 , niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and/or copper, and a second composition comprising omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA, to supplement the nutritional needs of individuals within physiologically stressful states.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to methods of co-administration of variousvitamin and mineral compositions and kits provided for co-administrationof these compositions for nutritional supplementation in, for example,subjects in physiologically stressful states.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Nutrition plays a critical role in maintaining good health. Propernutrition prevents dietary deficiencies, and also protects against thedevelopment of disease. Proper nutrition plays an increasingly importantrole as the body faces physiological stress. For example, pregnancy andlactation are among the most nutritionally volatile and physiologicallystressful periods and processes in the lifetimes of women. Specifically,vitamin and mineral needs are almost universally increased during thesenatural processes. These increased needs are almost always due toelevated metabolic demand, increased plasma volume, increased levels ofblood cells, decreased concentrations of nutrients, and decreasedconcentrations of nutrient-binding proteins.

Thus, nutritional supplementation serves a vital role in protectingagainst poor nutrition and disease. More specifically, research hassuggested that optimizing specific nutrients before, during, and afterthe physiological processes of pregnancy or lactation can have aprofound, positive, and comprehensive impact upon the overall wellnessof the developing and newborn child as well as the safety and health ofthe mother. The present inventions provide compositions and methodsdesigned to supplement the nutritional needs of individuals withinphysiologically stressful states.

Supplementation with certain vitamins and minerals serves a role inprotecting against disease and contributes to the overall health of themother and developing child. Specifically, such compounds as vitamin B₆,vitamin B₁₂, folic acid, and omega-3 fatty acids such as docosahexaenoicacid (DHA), play integral roles in physiological mechanisms that serveto prevent, treat and/or alleviate the occurrence or negative effects ofsome diseases. Supplementation with other vitamins and minerals,however, may inhibit the beneficial effects of these compounds. Thus,when choosing and administering a nutritional supplement, it isessential to understand the physiological needs and risks of individualpatients and particular population groups, and the interactions betweenvarious vitamins and minerals.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides methods of co-administering compositionsand kits comprising compositions for both prophylactic and therapeuticnutritional supplementation. Specifically, for example, the presentinvention relates to novel compositions of vitamins and minerals thatcan be used to supplement the nutritional deficiencies observed inpatients throughout physiologically stressful states. The presentinvention also may be formulated to exclude vitamins and minerals knownto inhibit the beneficial effects of the included vitamins and minerals.

The present invention includes methods of co-administering thecompositions of the invention to patients, together or in any order, tosupplement the nutritional deficiencies observed in patients throughoutphysiologically stressful states such as, for example, pregnancy,lactation, and any disease state. The compositions of the presentinvention may be in a swallowable, chewable or dissolvable formaccording to an individual patient's preference. Choice in dosage formpromotes ease of administration and compliance with dosing regimens.

The present invention also includes kits that may be provided topatients, wherein the compositions as described herein are packaged forco-administration to a patient.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the method comprisesco-administering to a patient a first composition comprising vitamin A,vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂,vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂, niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, andcopper; and, a second composition comprising omega-3 fatty acids.

In another embodiment, the method or kit comprises a second compositionwherein the omega-3 fatty acid comprises docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).

In one embodiment, the method comprises co-administering the twocompositions at the same time, or one after the other in either order.

In a specific embodiment, the compositions of the described method areco-administered to the patient orally. The compositions may beswallowable, chewable, or dissolvable.

In a specific embodiment, vitamin A comprises acetate, vitamin B₁comprises thiamine mononitrate, and/or vitamin B₆ comprises pyridoxinehydrochloride. In another specific embodiment, folic acid comprisesvitamin B₉, folacin, metafolin, or folate. In another embodiment, folicacid comprises one or more natural derivatives of folate, such as(6S)-tetrahydrofolic acid or a polyglutamyl derivative thereof,5-methyl-(6S)-tetrahydrofolic acid or a polyglutamyl derivative thereof,5-formyl-(6S)-tetrahydrofolic acid or a polyglutamyl derivative thereof,10-formyl-(6R)-tetrahydrofolic acid or a polyglutamyl derivativethereof, 5,10-methylene-(6R)-tetrahydrofolic acid or a polyglutamylderivative thereof, 5,10-methenyl-(6R)-tetrahydrofolic acid or apolyglutamyl derivative thereof, or 5-formimino-(6S)-tetrahydrofolicacid or a polyglutamyl derivative thereof.

In another embodiment, vitamin B₁₂ comprises cyanocobalamin, vitamin Ccomprises ascorbic acid, vitamin E comprises d-alpha tocopheryl acetateor d-alpha tocopheryl succinate, iron comprises ferrous fumarate,magnesium comprises magnesium oxide, and/or zinc comprises zinc oxide.

In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the first compositionis substantially free of one or more of added compounds selected fromthe group consisting of vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E,folic acid, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂, vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂, niacin,calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and copper.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the compositions aresubstantially free of other added active compounds. In a specificembodiment, the compositions of the present invention are substantiallyfree of one or more of such added active compounds selected from thegroup consisting of lutein, lycopene, zeaxanthin, vitamin B₄, vitaminB₅, vitamin B₇, vitamin B₈, vitamin B₁₀, vitamin K, biotin, pantothenicacid, phosphorus, iodine, potassium, odorless garlic, coenzyme Q₁₀,1-carnitine, grape seed extract, chloride, sodium, green tea extract,quercetin, fluoride, hawthorne berries, and alpha lipoic acid.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the compositions aresubstantially free added minerals. In a specific embodiment thecompositions of the present invention are substantially free of one ormore of added minerals selected from the group consisting of chromium,titanium, molybdenum, nickel, tin, silicon, vanadium, manganese,selenium, selenite, boron, bismuth, borax, bauxite, gold, silver,hydroxylapatite, mica, quartz, steatite, talc, sulfur, and zircon.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the compositions aresubstantially free of added inactive compounds that serve merely asinert, excipient, and/or formulatory ingredients of the composition. Ina specific embodiment, the compositions of the present invention aresubstantially free of one or more of added inactive compounds selectedfrom the group consisting of magnesium stearate, silica, silicondioxide, magnesium silicate, dicalcium phosphate, povidone, titaniumdioxide, sodium benzoate, alpha lipoic acid, lutein, lycopene,cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, stearic acid, cellulose,hydroxylpropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, titaniumdioxide, polydextrose, triacetin, dicalcium phosphate, polyethyleneglycol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, mineral oil, methocel, sodium laurylsulfate, and talc.

In another embodiment, the method or kit includes a composition furthercomprising a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. As an example but notby way of limitation, this carrier may be selected from one or more ofthe following: binders, diluents, lubricants, glidants, colorants,emulsifiers, disintegrants, starches, water, oils, alcohols,preservatives and sugars.

In another embodiment, the method or kit includes a composition thatfurther comprises a sweetening agent. As an example but not by way oflimitation, this sweetening agent may be one or more selected from thegroup consisting of sucrose, fructose, fructose, high fructose cornsyrup, dextrose, saccharin sodium, maltodextrin, aspartame, potassiumacesulfame, neohesperidin dihydrochalcone, sucralose, monoammoniumglycyrrhizinate, and mixtures thereof.

In another embodiment, the method or kit includes a composition thatfurther comprises a flavorant. As an example but not by way oflimitation, the flavorant may be one or more selected from the groupconsisting of a natural flavor oil, a synthetic flavor oil, a citrusoil, a fruit essence, an extract from a plant, an extract from a leaf,an extract from a flower, an extract from a fruit, a synthetic flavorand a combination thereof. The flavorant may also be one or moreselected from the group consisting of anise oil, cinnamon oil,peppermint oil, oil of wintergreen, clove oil, bay oil, anise oil,eucalyptus oil, thyme oil, cedar leave oil, oil of nutmeg, oil of sage,oil of bitter almonds, cassia oil, lemon oil, orange oil, lime oil,grapefruit oil, grape oil and a combination thereof. Or, the flavorantmay be one or more selected from the group consisting of apple essence,pear essence, peach essence, berry essence, wildberry essence, dateessence, blueberry essence, kiwi essence, strawberry essence, raspberryessence, cherry essence, plum essence, pineapple essence, and apricotessence. Additionally, the flavorant may be one or more selected fromthe group consisting of natural mixed berry flavor, citric acid, malicacid, vanilla, vanillin, cocoa, chocolate, and menthol.

In another specific embodiment, the method or kit includes a compositionfurther comprising alkyl polysiloxane in an amount of about 0.05 weightpercent to less than about 1.0 weight percent of either the first or thesecond composition. This alkyl polysiloxane may be in the form ofdimethyl polysiloxane.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the method or kit iscomprised of a composition comprising about 1350 IU to about 4050 IU ofvitamin A; about 200 IU to about 600 IU of vitamin D; about 35 mg toabout 105 mg of vitamin C; about 15 IU to about 45 IU of vitamin E;about 0.5 mg to about 1.5 mg of folic acid; about 0.8 mg to about 2.4 mgof vitamin B1; about 0.9 mg to about 2.7 mg of vitamin B2; about 1.25 mgto about 3.75 mg of vitamin B6; about 6 mcg to about 18 mcg of vitaminB12; about 9 mg to about 27 mg of niacin; about 50 mg to about 150 mg ofcalcium; about 32.5 mg to about 97.5 mg of iron; about 12.5 mg to about37.5 mg of magnesium; about 12.5 mg to about 37.5 mg of zinc; and about1 mg to about 3 mg of copper.

In another specific embodiment of the invention, the method or kitincludes a composition comprising about 2700 IU vitamin A; about 400 IUvitamin D; about 70 mg vitamin C; about 30 IU vitamin E; about 1.0 mgfolic acid; about 1.6 mg vitamin B₁; about 1.8 mg vitamin B₂; about 2.5mg vitamin B₆; about 12 mcg vitamin B₁₂; about 18 mg niacin; about 100mg calcium; about 65 mg iron; about 25 mg magnesium; about 25 mg zinc;and about 2 mg copper.

In a specific embodiment, the patient is pregnant, lactating, and/or hasnutritional deficiencies. The nutritional deficiencies may be a resultof pregnancy, lactation, elevated metabolic demand, or increased plasmavolume, for example.

In another specific embodiment, the patient may be within aphysiologically stressful state. This physiologically stressful statemay be any disease state.

In another embodiment, the omega-3 fatty acids of the kit or method areenclosed in a gel-cap, or may be in liquid form.

In another specific embodiment, the omega-3 fatty acids of the kit ormethod are present in the amount of about 50 mg to about 150 mg, about75 mg to about 125 mg, about 90 mg to about 110 mg, or are present inthe amount of about 100 mg.

In another embodiment, the kits are packaged in various forms includingbottles and blister packs.

In yet another embodiment, the kits are packaged in bottles that aresold together; one bottle containing compositions comprising vitamin A,vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂,vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂, niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and/orcopper, and one bottle containing compositions comprising omega-3 fattyacids such as DHA.

In another embodiment, the kits are packaged in bottles that are soldseparately; one bottle containing compositions comprising vitamin A,vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂,vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂, niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and/orcopper, and one bottle containing compositions comprising omega-3 fattyacids such as DHA.

In an alternative embodiment, the kits are packaged in bottlesadvertised as more effective if co-administered; one bottle containingcompositions comprising vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E,folic acid, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂, vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂, niacin,calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and/or copper, and one bottle containingcompositions comprising omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA. Theadvertisements may consist of internet, print, and product packagingadvertisements.

In another embodiment, the kits are packaged in blister packs that aresold together; one blister pack containing compositions comprisingvitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B₁,vitamin B₂, vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂, niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium,zinc, and/or copper, and one blister pack containing compositionscomprising omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA.

In yet another embodiment, the kits are packaged in one blister packcontaining compositions comprising vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C,vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂, vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂,niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and/or copper, and containingcompositions comprising omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA, paired togetherper unit dose.

In another embodiment, the kits are packaged in blister packs that aresold separately; one blister pack containing compositions comprisingvitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B₁,vitamin B₂, vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂, niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium,zinc, and/or copper, and one blister pack containing compositionscomprising omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA.

In yet another embodiment, the kits are packaged in blister packsadvertised as more effective if co-administered; one blister packcontaining compositions comprising vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C,vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂, vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂,niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and/or copper, and one blisterpack containing compositions comprising omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA.The advertisements may consist of internet, print, and product packagingadvertisements.

In another embodiment, the invention comprises a method which comprisesproviding the kit as described to patients.

Other objectives, features and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent from the following detailed description. The detaileddescription and the specific examples, although indicating specificembodiments of the invention, are provided by way of illustration only.Accordingly, the present invention also includes those various changesand modifications within the spirit and scope of the invention that maybecome apparent to those skilled in the art from this detaileddescription.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

It is understood that the present invention is not limited to theparticular methodologies, protocols, fillers, and excipients, etc.,described herein, as these may vary. It is also to be understood thatthe terminology used herein is used for the purpose of describingparticular embodiments only, and is not intended to limit the scope ofthe present invention. It must be noted that as used herein and in theappended claims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include theplural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Thus,for example, a reference to “a vitamin” is a reference to one or morevitamins and includes equivalents thereof known to those skilled in theart and so forth.

Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used hereinhave the same meanings as commonly understood by one of ordinary skillin the art to which this invention belongs. Specific methods, devices,and materials are described, although any methods and materials similaror equivalent to those described herein can be used in the practice ortesting of the present invention. All references cited herein areincorporated by reference herein in their entirety.

The term “disease state” as used herein, may comprise any state in whichone or more organs or components of an organism malfunction. The term“disease state” may refer to any deterioration of any component of abody. The term “disease state” may refer to any deficiency of anycompound necessary for the maintenance or function of any component ofany organism. The term “disease state” may refer to any condition inwhich a body contains toxins, produced by microorganisms that infect thebody or by body cells through faulty metabolism or absorbed from anexternal source. “Disease states” may be adverse states caused by anydiet, any virus, or any bacteria. “Disease states” may comprisedisorders associated with pregnant females such as, for example,osteomalacia and preeclampsia and disorders associated with a fetus suchas, for example, neural tube defects and various fetal abnormalities.“Disease states” may comprise any pulmonary disorder such as, forexample, bronchitis, bronchiectasis, atelectasis, pneumonia, diseasescaused by inorganic dusts, diseases caused by organic dusts, anypulmonary fibrosis, and pleurisy. “Disease states” may comprise anyhematological/oncological disorder such as, for example, anemia,hemophilia, leukemia, and lymphoma. A “disease state” may comprise anycancer such as, for example, breast cancer, lung cancer, prostatecancer, pancreatic cancer, liver cancer, stomach cancer, testicularcancer, ovarian cancer, skin cancer, cancer of the brain, cancer of themouth, cancer of the throat, and cancer of the neck. “Disease states”may comprise any disorder of the immune system such as, for example,acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), AIDS-related complex,infection by any strain of any human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), andother viruses or pathogens such as bacteria, fungi and parasites. A“disease state” may comprise any cardiovascular disorder such as, forexample, arterial hypertension, orthostatic hypotension,arteriosclerosis, coronary artery disease, cardiomyopathy, anyarrhythmia, any valvular heart disease, endocarditis, pericardialdisease, any cardiac tumor, any aneurysm, and any peripheral vasculardisorder. “Disease states” may comprise any hepatic/biliary disordersuch as, for example, jaundice, hepatic steatosis, fibrosis, cirrhosis,hepatitis, any hepatic granuloma, any liver tumor, cholelithiasis,cholecystitis, and choledocholithiasis.

The term “physiologically stressful state,” as used herein, comprisesany state of an organism in which the organism faces one or morephysiological challenges. A “physiologically stressful state” maycomprise pregnancy, lactation, or conditions in which an organism facesphysiological challenges related to, for example, elevated metabolicdemand, increased plasma volume, or decreased concentrations ofnutrient-binding proteins. A “physiologically stressful state” mayresult from one or more disease states.

The term “subject,” as used herein, comprises any and all organisms andincludes the term “patient.” “Subject” may refer to a human or any otheranimal. “Subject” may also refer to a fetus.

The phrase “pharmaceutically acceptable,” as used herein, refers tothose compounds, materials, compositions, and/or dosage forms which are,within the scope of sound medical judgment, suitable for use in contactwith the tissues of human beings and animals without excessive toxicity,irritation, allergic response, or other problem or complication,commensurate with a reasonable benefit/risk ratio.

The phrase “swallowable form” refers to any compositions that do notreadily dissolve when placed in the mouth and may be swallowed wholewithout any chewing or discomfort. In one embodiment, may have a shapecontaining no sharp edges and a smooth, uniform and substantially bubblefree outer coating.

The phrase “co-administration” refers to administration of twocompositions to a patient together or within a certain desired time.

The phrase “chewable form” refers to any relatively soft compositionsthat are chewed in the mouth after oral administration, have a pleasanttaste and mouthfeel, and quickly break into smaller pieces and begin todissolve after chewing such that they can be swallowed substantially asa solution.

The phrase “dissolvable form” refers to any compositions that dissolveinto a solution in the mouth. Such compositions, in one embodiment, maydissolve within about 60 seconds or less after placement in the mouthwithout any chewing.

The term “mouthfeel” refers to non-taste-related aspects of thepleasantness experienced by a person while chewing or swallowing anutritional supplement. Aspects of mouthfeel include, for example andwithout limitation, the hardness and brittleness of a composition,whether the composition is chewy, gritty, oily, creamy, watery, sticky,easily dissolved, astringent, effervescent, and the like, and the size,shape, and form of the composition (tablet, powder, gel, etc.).

The term “substantially free,” as used herein, means free fromtherapeutically effective amounts of compounds when administered insuggested dosages, but may include trace amounts of compounds innon-therapeutically effective amounts. “Substantially free” may alsomean including minimal amounts of compounds inadvertently and/orunintentionally introduced to the composition due to unavoidableconstraints of the current state of the art; e.g., as contaminants orimpurities in selected compounds.

As used herein, the terms “inactive,” “inert,” “excipient,” and/or“formulatory” refer to any compound that is an inactive ingredient of adescribed composition. The definition of “inactive ingredient” as usedherein follows that of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, as definedin 21 C.F.R. 201.3(b)(8), which is any component of a drug product otherthan the active ingredient. By “active ingredient,” then, is meant anycompound intended to furnish pharmacological activity or other directeffect in the diagnosis, cure, mitigation, treatment and/or preventionof a condition. See 21 C.F.R. 210.3(b)(7). Further, “active ingredients”include those compounds of the composition that may undergo chemicalchange during the manufacture of the composition and be present in thefinal composition in a modified form intended to furnish an activity oreffect. Id.

Proper nutrition is essential for maintaining health and preventingdiseases. Adequate nutrition is especially critical during, for example,nutritionally volatile or physiologically stressful periods such asperiods comprising, for example, pregnancy, lactation, or a diseasestate. Vitamin and mineral needs are almost universally increasedthroughout these periods. Such increased needs during physiologicallystressful states, such as pregnancy or lactation, for example, mayresult from elevated metabolic demand, increased plasma volume,increased quantities of circulating red blood cells, decreasedconcentrations of nutrients, and/or decreased concentrations ofnutrient-binding proteins such as, for example, serum-ferritin,maltose-binding protein, lactoferrin, calmodulin, tocopheryl bindingprotein, riboflavin binding protein, retinol binding protein,transthyretin, high density lipoprotein-apolipoprotein A1, folic acidbinding protein, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D binding protein. Lapido, AMER JCLIN NUTR 72:280 S-290S (Supp.) (2000).

Optimizing specific nutrients before, during, and after thephysiological processes of pregnancy and lactation can have a profound,positive, and comprehensive impact on the overall wellness of thedeveloping and newborn child, as well as the safety and health of themother. Black, BRIT J NUTR 85:S193-197 (Supp.) (2001); Scholl et al.,AMER J EPIDEM 146:134-141 (1997). Nutrients provided to a mother ofcourse reach the fetus. Specifically, it is established that substratesfor growth and development, for example, circulate within the samepathways that carry drugs to and waste products from the fetus.Exchanges of material between mother and fetus occur primarily in theplacenta, where villi containing fetal capillaries protrude into sinuses(intervillous spaces). Maternal arterial blood flows into these spaces,then drains into maternal uterine veins to be returned to the maternalsystemic circulation. Solutes in maternal blood cross the epithelialcells and connective tissue of the villi and the endothelium of thefetal capillaries; these solutes are then carried to the fetus byplacental veins, which converge into the umbilical vein. THE MERCKMANUAL OF DIAGNOSIS AND THERAPY 17th ed., p. 2022, M H Beers and R BBerkow eds. (1999).

The methods and kits of the present invention provide the means tooptimize good health by utilizing vitamin and mineral combinations fornutritional supplementation. The methods and kits of the presentinvention may be administered to or directed to a subject such as ahuman or any other organism.

The methods and kits of the present invention comprise compositions thatmay be co-administered. Co-administration of the compositions of thepresent invention and/or patient compliance may be found to achieve moreeffective nutritional supplementation, and thus better protect againstdisease and poor nutrition, and have a more positive and comprehensiveimpact upon the wellness of the developing and newborn child, and uponthe safety and health of the mother.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising vitamin A. This vitamin functions in physiological processesresulting in cellular differentiation, cellular maturity, and cellularspecificity. In this regard vitamin A is an important component of anutritional supplement for subjects in a physiologically stressfulstate, such as pregnancy or lactation. Zile et al., J NUTR 131(3):705-08(2001).

The compounds and methods of the present invention may comprise aparticular form of vitamin A; for example, the pro-vitamin A carotenoid,beta carotene. Beta carotene is converted to vitamin A within the bodyas needed, thereby avoiding the risk of vitamin A toxicity. Mayne, FASEBJ 10:690-701 (1996).

The novel compositions and methods of the present invention may compriseor use vitamin A, specifically in amounts ranging from about 1350 IU toabout 4050 IU and, in a specific embodiment, around 2700 IU. The novelkits and methods of the present invention may be comprised ofcompositions comprising vitamin A, specifically in amounts of 0 IU, 2690IU, 2691 IU, 2692 IU, 2693 IU, 2694 IU, 2695 IU, 2696 IU, 2697 IU, 2698IU, 2699 IU, 2700 IU, 2701 IU, 2702 IU, 2703 IU, 2704 IU, 2705 IU, 2706IU, 2707 IU, 2708 IU, 2709 IU or 2710 IU.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising vitamin D. Vitamin D is a fat-soluble “hormone like”substance important for the maintenance of healthy bones. This vitaminincreases the absorption of calcium and phosphorous from thegastrointestinal tract, and improves mineral resorption into bonetissue. The result of this physiological function is a correlationbetween adequate systemic levels in pregnancy and a long-lastingreduction in osteoporotic fractures throughout the lifespan of thenewborn. M F Holick, “Vitamin D,” in MODERN NUTRITION IN HEALTH ANDDISEASE, p. 313, M E Shils, J A Olsen and M. Shike eds., Plea andFebiger, Philadelphia, Pa. (1994); MK Javaid et al., LANCET367(9504):36-43 (2006).

Vitamin D can be converted to its active form from exposure of the skinto sunlight. This fact is among the reasons why vitamin D deficiency iscommon in the elderly, notably the institutionalized, who spend littleor no time out of doors. Deficiencies lead to increased bone turnoverand loss, and when severe, osteomalacia, or softening of the bones.Supplementation with vitamin D has been shown to moderately reduce boneloss, increase serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and decrease serum parathyroidhormone levels. Dawson-Hughes et al., NEW ENG J MED 337:670-76 (1997);Lips et al., J CLIN ENDOCRINOL METAB 86:1212-21 (2001).

The research findings into the essentiality of optimal vitamin D statusduring pregnancy and its implications, continue to expand far beyondbone health. Correlations include vitamin D's role in infant immunity,neurodevelopment, birth weight, and incidence of asthma. Growingresearch findings regarding the importance of this hormone-like compoundis due, in large part, to the fact that vitamin D receptors have nowbeen identified on nearly every tissue and cell in the human body. H FDeLuca et al., FASEB J 15:2579-2585 (2001); D. Eyles et al.,NEUROSCIENCE 118(3):641-653 (2003); C A Mannion et al., CMAJ174(9):1273-1277 (2006); B W Hollis et al., CMAJ 174(9):1287-1290(2006); American Academy of Allergy, Asthma and Immunology AnnualMeeting, Miami, Fl. (March 2006).

The vitamin D of the compositions and methods of the present inventionmay comprise vitamin D₃ (cholecalciferol). In the body, vitamin D₃ isproduced when its precursor is exposed to ultraviolet irradiation (e.g.,sunlight) and then hydroxylated in the liver to form 25-hydroxyvitaminD₃, a form of vitamin D in circulation. This form of the vitamin may behydroxylated again in the kidney, yielding 1,25-hydroxyvitamin D₃, apotent form of vitamin D. Vitamin D₃ plays a role in the maintenance ofcalcium and phosphorus homeostasis, but it is also active in celldifferentiation and immune function. The novel compositions and methodsof the present invention may comprise or use vitamin D, specifically inamounts ranging from about 200 IU to about 600 IU and, in a specificembodiment, around 400 IU. The novel kits and methods of the presentinvention may be comprised of compositions comprising vitamin D,specifically in amounts of 0 IU, 390 IU, 391 IU, 392 IU, 393 IU, 394 IU,395 IU, 396 IU, 397 IU, 398 IU, 399 IU, 400 IU, 401 IU, 402 IU, 403 IU,404 IU, 405 IU, 406 IU, 407 IU, 408 IU, 409 IU or 410 IU.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising vitamin C (also known as ascorbic acid).). Vitamin C, alongwith vitamin E, is a key antioxidant nutrient. The major biochemicalrole of the water-soluble vitamin C is as a co-substrate in metalcatalyzed hydroxylations. Vitamin C also has antioxidant properties ininteracting directly with superoxide hydroxyl radicals and singletoxygen. Additionally, vitamin C provides antioxidant protection forfolate and vitamin E, keeping vitamin E in its most potent form.

The damaging effects of a process known as oxidative stress, whichincludes free radical production and lipid peroxidation has beenassociated with over 200 disease processes. Rock et al., J AMER DIETASSOC 96(7):693-702 (1996). The area of antioxidant research hasextended into optimizing nutritional health during pregnancy.Specifically, lipid peroxidation may be implicated, for example, in thepathophysiology of preeclampsia, a toxemia of pregnancy. Antioxidantnutrients such as vitamin C may afford protective effects againstpreeclampsia by participating in the scavenging of free radicals.Indeed, significantly lower levels of vitamin C have been observed inpreeclamptic women than in controls. Woods et al., AM J OBSTET GYNECOL185(1):5-10 (2001); Kharb, EURO J OBSTET GYNECOL REPROD BIOL 1:37-39(2000); Milczarek et al., MOL CELL BIOCHEM 210:65-73 (2000).

Vitamin C also enhances the absorption of iron. NATIONAL RESEARCHCOUNCIL, RECOMMENDED DIETARY ALLOWANCES 115, 10th ed. (1989)(hereinafter “RDA”). In addition, vitamin C is required for collagensynthesis, epinephrine synthesis, and bile acid formation. Moreover,vitamin C has been implicated in inhibiting atherosclerosis by beingpresent in extracellular fluid of the arterial wall and potentiatingnitric oxide activity, thus normalizing vascular function. The novelcompositions and methods of the present invention may comprise or usevitamin C, specifically in amounts ranging from about 35 mg to about 105mg and, in a specific embodiment, around 70 mg. The novel kits andmethods of the present invention may be comprised of compositionscomprising vitamin C, specifically in amounts of 0 mg, 60 mg, 61 mg, 62mg, 63 mg, 64 mg, 65 mg, 66 mg, 67 mg, 68 mg, 69 mg, 70 mg, 71 mg, 72mg, 73 mg, 74 mg, 75 mg, 76 mg, 77 mg, 78 mg, 79 mg or 80 mg.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising vitamin E. Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin antioxidantfound in biological membranes where it protects the phospholipidmembrane from oxidative stress. One form of vitamin E,dl-alpha-tocopheryl acetate (BASF Corporation, Mount Olive, N.J.), isused to fortify foods and pharmaceuticals and may be used within thecontext of the present invention. Vitamin E inhibits the oxidation ofunsaturated fatty acids by trapping peroxyl free radicals. It is also anantiatherogenic agent, and studies have demonstrated a reduced risk ofcoronary heart disease with increased intake of vitamin E. Stampfer etal., NEW ENG J MED 328:1444-1449 (1993). In addition, vitamin E, likevitamin C, may afford protective effects against preeclampsia byparticipating in the scavenging of free radicals. Indeed, significantlylower levels of vitamin E have been observed in preeclamptic women thanin controls. Woods et al., AM J OBSTET GYNECOL 185(1):5-10 (2001);Kharb, EURO J OBSTET GYNECOL REPROD BIOL 1:37-39 (2000); Milczarek etal., MOL CELL BIOCHEM 210:65-73 (2000).

The novel compositions and methods of the present invention may compriseor use vitamin E, specifically in amounts ranging from about 15 IU toabout 45 IU and, in a specific embodiment, around 30 IU. The novel kitsand methods of the present invention may be comprised of compositionscomprising vitamin E, specifically in amounts of 0 IU, 20 IU, 21 IU, 22IU, 23 IU, 24 IU, 25 IU, 26 IU, 27 IU, 28 IU, 29 IU, 30 IU, 31 IU, 32IU, 33 IU, 34 IU, 35 IU, 36 IU, 37 IU, 38 IU, 39 IU or 40 IU.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising B-complex vitamins. This class of vitamins comprises thewater-soluble nutrients not generally stored in the body to any greatextent. The B-complex vitamins of the present compositions and methodsmay comprise one or more of thiamine (B₁), riboflavin (B₂), niacin (B₃),folic acid, pyridoxine (B₆) and cyanocobalamin (B₁₂). B-complex vitaminsplay roles in a variety of biological processes critical to the healthof pregnant women, lactating women, and fetuses such as, for example,erythropoiesis (red blood cell production), and the metabolism ofhomocysteine and subsequent blood level reduction. M. DeFalco et al.,CLIN EXP OBSTET GYNECOL 27(3-4):188-190 (2000). Among the functions ofthe B-complex vitamins is helping the body utilize energy from foodsthat are ingested. With the increased caloric needs of pregnancy comesan increased need for these nutrients for adequate caloric utilization.T K Eskes, CLIN EXP OBSTET GYNECOL 27(3-4):157-167 (2000); Y X Yang etal., BIOMED ENVIRON SCI 13(4):280-286 (2000).

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising folic acid. Folic acid plays a key role in synthesizinggenetic material during cell reproduction. In physiological state thatrequire increased cell reproduction such as pregnancy, folic acid needsare concurrently increased. Failure to achieve adequate folate statusduring pregnancy increases the risk of birth defects. G J Locksmith andP. Duff, OBSTET GYNECOL 91:1027-1037 (1998).

Neural Tube Defects (NTD's) are a group of nervous system abnormalitiescaused by an interruption of the normal early development of the neuraltube. When the lower end of the neural tube fails to close, a commondefect known as spina bifida occurs. Spina bifida is accompanied byvarying degrees of paralysis secondary to the condition's effect on thespinal cord. Id. The B-complex vitamin folic acid has the demonstratedability to prevent neural tube defects (NTD's) such as spina bifidacaused by disturbed homocysteine metabolism. Folic acid itself plays arole in the metabolic reduction of the amino acid intermediaryhomocysteine. Elevated homocysteine levels have been correlated withvascular dysfunction and heart disease. Recent research has expandedbeyond this into a possible relationship between NTD's and elevatedhomocysteine levels. This observation arises secondary to apparentelevations of homocysteine levels in mothers of children born withNTD's. Vanderput et al., EXP BIOL MED 226(4):243-270 (2001); DeFalco etal., CLIN EXP OBSTET GYNECOL 27:188-90 (2000); Eskes, CLIN EXP OBSTETGYNECOL 27:157-67 (2000); Locksmith and Duff, OBSTET GYNECOL91:1027-1034 (1998). This correlation may explain in part the protectiveeffect of folate against neural tube defects. Further, folic acid isimportant for the formation of red and white blood cells within bonemarrow and plays a role in heme formation. RDA at 150.

The novel compositions and methods of the present invention may compriseor use folic acid, specifically in amounts ranging from about 0.5 mg toabout 1.5 mg and, in a specific embodiment, around 1.0 mg. The novelkits and methods of the present invention may be comprised ofcompositions comprising folic acid, specifically in amounts of 0 mg, 0.1mg, 0.2 mg, 0.3 mg, 0.4 mg, 0.5 mg, 0.6 mg, 0.7 mg, 0.8 mg, 0.9 mg, 1.0mg, 1.1 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.3 mg, 1.4 mg, 1.5 mg, 1.6 mg, 1.7 mg, 1.8 mg, 1.9mg or 2.0 mg.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising vitamin B₁. This vitamin plays a role in carbohydratemetabolism and neural function. It is a coenzyme for the oxidativedecarboxylation of alpha-ketoacids (e.g., alpha-ketoglutarate andpyruvate) and for transketolase which is a component of the pentosephosphate pathway. Folate deficiency and malnutrition inhibit theactivity of thiamine. RDA at 123. Vitamin B₁ is available in forms knownto those of skill in the art, including the form of thiamine mononitrate(BASF Corporation, Mount Olive, N.J.). The novel compositions andmethods of the present invention may comprise or use vitamin B₁,specifically in amounts ranging from about 0.8 mg to about 2.4 mg and,in a specific embodiment, around 1.6 mg. The novel kits and methods ofthe present invention may be comprised of compositions comprisingvitamin B1, specifically in amounts of 0 mg, 0.6 mg, 0.7 mg, 0.8 mg, 0.9mg, 1.0 mg, 1.1 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.3 mg, 1.4 mg, 1.5 mg, 1.6 mg, 1.7 mg, 1.8mg, 1.9 mg, 2.0 mg, 2.1 mg, 2.2 mg, 2.3 mg, 2.4 mg, 2.5 mg, or 2.6 mg.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising vitamin B₂ (riboflavin). Riboflavin is a component of twoflavin coenzymes, flavin mononucleotide (FMN) and flavin adeninedinucleotide (FAD). These flavoenzymes are involved in a number ofoxidation-reduction reactions including the conversion of pyridoxine andniacin. RDA at 132. Flavoenzymes also play a role in a number ofmetabolic pathways such as amino acid deamination, purine degradation,and fatty acid oxidation and thus help to maintain carbohydrate, aminoacid, and lipid metabolism. The novel compositions and methods of thepresent invention may comprise or use vitamin B₂, specifically inamounts ranging from about 0.9 mg to about 2.7 mg and, in a specificembodiment, around 1.8 mg. The novel kits and methods of the presentinvention may be comprised of compositions comprising vitamin B2,specifically in amounts of 0 mg, 0.8 mg, 0.9 mg, 1.0 mg, 1.1 mg, 1.2 mg,1.3 mg, 1.4 mg, 1.5 mg, 1.6 mg, 1.8 mg, 1.9 mg, 2.0 mg, 2.1 mg, 2.2 mg,2.3 mg, 2.4 mg, 2.5 mg, 2.6 mg, 2.7 mg, or 2.8 mg.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising vitamin B₆ (pyridoxine). The administration of pyridoxine mayreduce the levels of homocysteine. Bostom et al., KIDNEY INT 49:147-152(1996). The active forms of pyridoxine, pyridoxal-5′-phosphate (PLP) andpyridoxamine-5′-phosphate, are coenzymes for numerous enzymes and assuch, are important for gluconeogenesis, niacin formation, anderythrocyte metabolism. RDA at 142-43. Pyridoxine is a coenzyme for bothcystathionine synthase and cystathionase, enzymes that catalyze theformation of cysteine from methionine. Homocysteine is an intermediatein this process and elevated levels of plasma homocysteine arerecognized as a risk factor for both vascular disease (Robinson et al.,CIRCULATION 94:2743-2748 (1996)) and neural tube defects (Locksmith andDuff, OBSTET GYNECOL 91:1027-1034 (1998)). Vitamin B₆ is available informs known to those of skill in the art, including the form ofpyridoxine hydrochloride (BASF Corporation, Mount Olive, N.J.).

The novel compositions and methods of the present invention may compriseor use vitamin B₆, specifically in amounts ranging from about 1.25 mg toabout 3.75 mg and, in a specific embodiment, around 2.5 mg. The novelkits and methods of the present invention may be comprised ofcompositions comprising vitamin B6, specifically in amounts of 0 mg, 1.5mg, 1.6 mg, 1.7 mg, 1.8 mg, 1.9 mg, 2.0 mg, 2.1 mg, 2.2 mg, 2.3 mg, 2.4mg, 2.5 mg, 2.6 mg, 2.7 mg, 2.8 mg, 2.9 mg, 3.0 mg, 3.1 mg, 3.2 mg, 3.3mg, 3.4 mg or 3.5 mg.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising vitamin B₁₂. Cobalamin (a form of vitamin B₁₂) can beconverted to the active coenzymes, methylcobalamin and5′-deoxyadenosylcobalamin. These coenzymes are necessary for folic acidmetabolism, conversion of coenzyme A, and myelin synthesis. For example,methylcobalamin catalyzes the demethylation of a folate cofactor whichis involved in DNA synthesis. A lack of demethylation may result infolic acid deficiency. RDA at 159-60. Deoxyadenosylcobalamin is thecoenzyme for the conversion of methylmalonyl-CoA to succinyl-CoA, whichplays a role in the citric acid cycle. Importantly, cobalamin, alongwith pyridoxine and folic acid in implicated in the proper metabolism ofhomocysteine. Cobalamin is available as cyanocobalamin, methylcobalamin,hydroxocobalamin, adenosylcobalamin, and hydroxycyanocobalamin. Thenovel compositions and methods of the present invention may comprise oruse vitamin B₁₂, specifically in amounts ranging from about 6 mcg toabout 18 mcg and, in a specific embodiment, around 12 mcg. The novelkits and methods of the present invention may be comprised ofcompositions comprising vitamin B12, specifically in amounts of 0 mcg, 2mcg, 3 mcg, 4 mcg, 5 mcg, 6 mcg, 7 mcg, 8 mcg, 9 mcg, 10 mcg, 11 mcg, 12mcg, 13 mcg, 14 mcg, 15 mcg, 16 mcg, 17 mcg, 18 mcg, 19 mcg, 20 mcg, 21mcg or 22 mcg.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising niacin. Niacin, also called vitamin B₃, is the common namefor two compounds: nicotinic acid (also called niacin) and niacinamide(also called nicotinamide). Niacin is particularly important formaintaining healthy levels and types of fatty acids. Niacin is alsorequired for the synthesis of pyroxidine, riboflavin, and folic acid.RDA at 137. Administration of niacin may also effect a reduction intotal cholesterol (LDL) and very low density lipoprotein (VLDL) levelsand an increase in high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels.Nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) and NAD phosphate (NADP) areactive coenzymes of niacin. These coenzymes are involved in numerousenzymatic reactions such as glycolysis, fatty acid metabolism, andsteroid synthesis. Henkin et al., AM J MED 91:239-246 (1991). The novelcompositions and methods of the present invention may comprise or useniacin, specifically in amounts ranging from about 9 mg to about 27 mgand, in a specific embodiment, around 18 mg. The novel kits and methodsof the present invention may be comprised of compositions comprisingniacin, specifically in amounts of 0 mg, 8 mg, 9 mg, 10 mg, 11 mg, 12mg, 13 mg, 14 mg, 15 mg, 16 mg, 17 mg, 18 mg, 19 mg, 20 mg, 21 mg, 22mg, 23 mg, 24 mg, 25 mg, 26 mg, 27 mg, or 28 mg.

Minerals are inorganic, or non-carbon-containing, elements that arecritical for healthy physiological processes. Minerals are contemplatedin the compositions of the kits and methods of the present invention.Such minerals may be in either chelated or non-chelated form. Forexample, minerals act as cofactors for hundreds of enzymes associated,for example, with food digestion, nucleic acid production, and proteinsynthesis. Minerals may also act as, for example, cofactors forantioxidant enzymes. The minerals of the compositions and methods of thepresent invention may comprise one or more of calcium, iron, magnesium,zinc, and copper.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising calcium in either chelated or non-chelated form. This mineralis required for proper functioning of numerous intracellular andextracellular processes including, for example, muscle contraction,nerve conduction, blood coagulation, and of particular interest in thecontext of pregnancy and lactation, hormone release. In addition, thecalcium ion plays a unique role in intracellular signaling and isinvolved in the regulation of many enzymes. THE MERCK MANUAL OFDIAGNOSIS AND THERAPY 17th ed., p. 139, M H Beers and R. Berkow eds.(1999). Calcium is available in forms known to those of skill in theart, including the form of calcium carbonate, the active ingredient inTUMS® (GlaxoSmithKline, Research Triangle Park, NC). The novelcompositions and methods of the present invention may comprise or usecalcium, specifically in amounts ranging from about 50 mg to about 150mg and, in a specific embodiment, around 100 mg. In addition, the novelcompositions and methods of the present invention may comprise or usecalcium in amounts of 0 mg, 90 mg, 91 mg, 92 mg, 93 mg, 94 mg, 95 mg, 96mg, 97 mg, 98 mg, 99 mg, 100 mg, 101 mg, 102 mg, 103 mg, 104 mg, 105 mg,106 mg, 107 mg, 108 mg, 109 mg, or 110 mg.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising iron in either chelated or non-chelated form. Increasedplasma volume and red blood cell number are among the reasons that thestatus of the essential mineral iron is critical during pregnancy. Aprimary function of iron is to carry oxygen to bodily tissues via thehemoglobin part of red blood cells. Supplemental intake of iron iscritical to preventing anemia, a disorder associated with a variety ofphysiological states including, for example, pregnancy. Bothwell, AM JCLIN NUTR 72:257 S-264S (Supp.) (2000). Anemia, or low iron status, isone of the most frequent complications related to pregnancy. Severeanemia may have adverse effects upon a mother and a fetus. Specifically,significant depression of hemoglobin has been associated with poorpregnancy outcome. Black, BRIT J NUTR 85:S193-197 (Supp. 2) (2001);Sifakis and Pharmakides, ANN NY ACAD SCI 900:125-136 (2000). The amountsof iron that can be absorbed, even from optimal diet, are less than theiron requirements in pregnancy. Supplemental iron is thereforerecommended.

One form of iron known in the art is ferrous fumarate (Jost Chemical,St. Louis, Mo.). The novel compositions and methods of the presentinvention may comprise or use iron, specifically in amounts ranging fromabout 32.5 mg to about 97.5 mg and, in a specific embodiment, around 65mg. In addition, the novel compositions and methods of the presentinvention may comprise or use iron in amounts of 0 mg, 55 mg, 56 mg, 57mg, 58 mg, 59 mg, 60 mg, 61 mg, 62 mg, 63 mg, 64 mg, 65 mg, 66 mg, 67mg, 68 mg, 69 mg, 70 mg, 71 mg, 72 mg, 73 mg, 74 mg, 75 mg.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising magnesium in either chelated or non-chelated form. Magnesiumis important for over 300 different enzyme reactions. A primary functionof magnesium is to bind to phosphate groups in adenosine triphosphate(ATP), thereby forming a complex that assists in the transfer of ATPphosphate. Magnesium also functions within cells as an allostericactivator of enzyme activity and for membrane stabilization. Magnesiumalso plays roles in nucleic acid synthesis, transcription of DNA andRNA, amino acid activation, and protein synthesis. ADVANCED NUTRITIONAND HUMAN METABOLISM 2nd ed., p. 341, J L L Groff et al. eds. (1996).

Magnesium is found primarily in both bone and muscle. Magnesium isrelated to the reactions of over 300 enzymes, including enzymesassociated with biosynthetic pathways, glycolysis, protein synthesis,transketolase reactions, and membrane transport. Magnesium is alsoinvolved in the formation of cAMP, a cytosolic second messenger thatplays a role in cell signaling mechanisms. In addition, magnesiumfunctions both synergistically and antagonistically with calcium inneuromuscular transmission. RDA at 188. Specifically, magnesium iscritical for the maintenance of electrochemical potentials of nerve andmuscle membranes and the neuromuscular junction transmissions,particularly important in the heart. Not surprisingly, magnesiumdeficiency is tied to cardiovascular disease and hypertension. Agus etal., CRIT CARE CLINICS 17:175-87 (2001). Indeed, oral magnesium therapyimproves endothelial function in patients with coronary disease.Shechter et al., 102 CIRCULATION 2353-58 (2000). During pregnancy thereis an obvious increase in cell replication and hence protein synthesis.These physiological processes require increased magnesium. MACROMINERALSIN ADVANCED NUTRITION AND HUMAN METABOLISM 2nd ed., pp. 325-351, J LGroff et al. eds., West Publishing Co., St. Paul, Minn. (1995).

Magnesium is available in a variety of salts. One form of magnesiumknown in the art is magnesium oxide (Mallinckrodt Baker, Inc.,Phillipsburg, N.J.). The novel kits and methods of the present inventionmay be comprised of compositions comprising magnesium, specifically inamounts ranging from about 12.5 mg to about 37.5 mg and, in a specificembodiment, around 25 mg. The novel kits and methods of the presentinvention may be comprised of compositions comprising magnesium,specifically in amounts of 0 mg, 15 mg, 16 mg, 17 mg, 18 mg, 19 mg, 20mg, 21 mg, 22 mg, 23 mg, 24 mg, 25 mg, 26 mg, 27 mg, 28 mg, 29 mg, 30mg, 31 mg, 32 mg, 33 mg, 34 mg or 35 mg.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising zinc in either chelated or non-chelated form. Zinc plays arole in numerous metabolic activities. The increased need for zincduring pregnancy is largely attributed to its function in nucleic acidproduction in genetic material, protein synthesis, and development ofthe immune system. With the increase in cell growth and replicationduring the state of pregnancy, these functions are critical to a healthypregnancy outcome. Common practices in pregnancy that, while necessary,can interfere with zinc absorption include the use of iron supplementsand consumption of cereal-based foods high in dietary fiber. Zincdeficiencies in pregnancy have been shown to have an effect on fetalgrowth and, if severe, could cause severe fetal abnormalities. M.Srinivas et al., Indian J PEDIATR 68(6):519-22 (2001), J C King, AM JCLIN NUTR 71:1334 S-1343S (2000), Y X Yang et al., BIOMED ENVIRON SCI13(4):280-286 (2000).

There are more than 200 zinc metalloenzymes including aldolase, alcoholdehydrogenase, RNA polymerase, and protein kinase C. Zima et al., BLOODPURIF 17:182-86 (1999). Zinc stabilizes RNA and DNA structures, formszinc fingers in nuclear receptors, and is a component of chromatinproteins involved in transcription and replication. Zinc is available inmany forms, such as zinc oxide (Reade Advanced Materials, Providence,R.I.) and zinc sulfate (United States Biological, Swampscott, Mass.).The novel compositions and methods of the present invention may compriseor use zinc, specifically in amounts ranging from about 12.5 mg to about37.5 mg and, in a specific embodiment, around 25 mg. The novel kits andmethods of the present invention may be comprised of compositionscomprising zinc, specifically in amounts of 0 mg, 15 mg, 16 mg, 17 mg,18 mg, 19 mg, 20 mg, 21 mg, 22 mg, 23 mg, 24 mg, 25 mg, 26 mg, 27 mg, 28mg, 29 mg, 30 mg, 31 mg, 32 mg, 33 mg, 34 mg or 35 mg.

The methods and kits of the present invention may comprise compoundscomprising copper in either chelated or non-chelated form. Copper is animportant component of the process of gene expression. Additionally, oneof copper's most vital roles is to help form hemoglobin, which, aspreviously discussed, carries oxygen to tissues via its iron component.In this respect copper plays a key role in protecting against anemia.Further, deficiencies of copper may lead to neutropenia and boneabnormalities in pregnant and lactating women. Uauy et al., AMER J CLINNUTR 67:952 S-959S (Supp.) (1998). In addition, a fetus must accumulatecopper at a rate of 50 mcg×kg⁻¹×d⁻¹ over the latter half of pregnancy;any deficiency in accumulation may lead to low birth weight andprotein-energy malnutrition. Id. Many forms of copper are known to thoseskilled in the art, including copper oxide (Reade Advanced Materials,Providence, R.I.). The novel compositions and methods of the presentinvention may comprise or use copper, specifically in amounts rangingfrom about 1 mg to about 3 mg and, in a specific embodiment, around 2.0mg. The novel kits and methods of the present invention may be comprisedof compositions comprising copper, specifically in amounts of 0 mg, 1.0mg, 1.1 mg, 1.2 mg, 1.3 mg, 1.4 mg, 1.5 mg, 1.6 mg, 1.7 mg, 1.8 mg, 1.9mg, 2.0 mg, 2.1 mg, 2.2 mg, 2.3 mg, 2.4 mg, 2.5 mg, 2.6 mg, 2.7 mg, 2.8mg, 2.9 mg, or 3.0 mg.

In a specific embodiment, vitamins and minerals that inhibit thebenefits of the disclosed compounds comprising the nutritionalsupplements may be specifically excluded from the methods and kits ofthe present invention. Additionally, certain vitamins and minerals whentaken in excess have been shown to have potentially negativephysiological effects; certain of these vitamins and minerals may bespecifically excluded from the methods and kits of this invention.

Chromium is a trace mineral essential for the human body. It isimportant in processing carbohydrates and fats, and helping the bodyrespond to insulin. J B Vincent, PROC NUTR SOC 63(1):41-7 (2004).Chromium in the form of chromium picolinate is a popular nutritionalsupplement. However, intake of chromium picolinate bears some risks.Laboratory studies of chromium picolinate have shown that it reacts withantioxidants in cells to produce a reduced form of chromium, which iscapable of causing DNA mutations. This mutagenic damaging of the cell'sgenetic material suggests that chromium picolinate could play a role incausing cancer. J B Vincent, SPORTS MED 33(3):213-30 (2003). In aspecific embodiment, the methods and kits of the present invention maybe free from added chromium.

Molybdenum is another trace mineral essential for the human body, whichis commonly included in nutritional supplements. It has been shown to berequired for maintaining normal growth in animals. PRESENT KNOWLEDGE INNUTRITION 7th Ed., pp. 358-360, EE Ziegler and L J Filer, Jr. eds., ILSIPress, Washington, D.C. (1996). Excessively large oral doses, however,can create toxicity such as growth depression, anemia, and incidence ofgout. Id. In a specific embodiment, the methods and kits of the presentinvention may be free from added molybdenum.

Care should also be taken to avoid an excess of vitamin Asupplementation. Elevated serum levels of the active form of vitamin A,retinol, are correlated with increased bone fragility, with a resultingdeleterious effect on bone health. Although retinol is involved in boneremodeling, excessive intake, as can occur with long-termsupplementation at relatively high doses, has been linked to bonedemineralization. Michaelson et al., N ENG J MED 348(4):287-294 (2003).In a specific embodiment, the methods and kits of the present inventionmay be free from added vitamin A.

Although iron is an essential nutrient with numerous functions, broadspectrum supplementation among the populous has come under scrutiny dueto its role as a catalyst for oxidative stress. Day et al., 107(20)CIRCULATION 2601-06 (2003). Oxidation, notably of Low-DensityLipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, has been strongly correlated with anincreased risk of cardiovascular disease. De Valk et al., 159 ARCH INTMED 1542-48 (1999). Accordingly, iron supplementation is indicated onlyin specific diagnostic states. In a specific embodiment, the methods andkits of the present invention may be free from added iron.

Although vitamin K, or phylloquinone, plays a role in the process ofmaintaining bone health, it also plays a major role in the synthesis ofcoagulation factors. This delicate balance of coagulation is at timespurposefully altered in those with, or at high risk of, cardiovasculardisease. Increased intake of vitamin K can alter the efficacy ofspecific medications used for this purpose. Further, the human bodyproduces vitamin K from naturally occurring intestinal bacteria, thusmaking deficiency of this nutrient rare. Due to these factors, broadspectrum vitamin K supplementation is discouraged. Kurnik et al., ANNPHARMACOTHER 37(11):1603-06 (2003); Shearer, LANCET 345:229-34 (1995).In a specific embodiment, the methods and kits of the present inventionmay be free from added vitamin K.

Lactose is a disaccharide, or sugar that is found mainly in milk anddairy products. Lactose intolerance or the inability to properly digestand absorb this compound is relatively common. With this inability comesuncomfortable side effects such as abdominal bloating, pain, anddiarrhea upon ingestion of lactose-containing foods. Since milk anddairy products are a primary source of both calcium and lactose, thosewho are lactose intolerant are more likely to have insufficient calciumintake and therefore osteoporosis. DiStefano et al., GASTROENTEROL122(7):1793-99 (2002). In a specific embodiment, the methods and kits ofthe present invention may be free of added lactose.

Manganese is a trace element essential for adequate growth andreproduction, bone development and carbohydrate metabolism. PRESENTKNOWLEDGE IN NUTRITION 7th Ed., pp. 334-339, E E Ziegler and L J Filer,Jr. eds., ILSI Press, Washington, D.C. (1996). As such, it is commonlyincluded in nutritional supplements. Manganese toxicity, however, isalso recognized as a serious health hazard to humans, when the mineralis taken in excess doses. Id. This toxicity may result in severeabnormalities of the central nervous system. Id. Manganese toxicity hasbeen reported in an individual who consumed high amounts of manganesesupplements over an extended period of time, and individuals whoconsumed water containing high manganese concentrations. Id. In aspecific embodiment, the methods and kits of the present invention maybe free from added molybdenum.

In one embodiment of the present invention, specific vitamins and/orminerals of the first composition may be excluded. For example, in aspecific embodiment, the first composition of the present invention maybe substantially free of one or more of added vitamins and mineralsselected from the group consisting of vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C,vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂, vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂,niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and copper.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the compositions may besubstantially free of other added active compounds, vitamins and/orcoenzymes. In a specific embodiment, the compositions of the presentinvention may be substantially free of one or more of added compoundsselected from the group consisting of lutein, lycopene, zeaxanthin,vitamin B₄, vitamin B₅, vitamin B₇, vitamin B₈, vitamin B₁₀, vitamin K,biotin, pantothenic acid, phosphorus, iodine, potassium, odorlessgarlic, coenzyme Q₁₀, 1-carnitine, grape seed extract, chloride, sodium,green tea extract, quercetin, fluoride, hawthorne berries, and alphalipoic acid.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the compositions may besubstantially free added minerals. In a specific embodiment thecompositions of the present invention may be substantially free of oneor more of added minerals selected from the group consisting ofchromium, titanium, molybdenum, nickel, tin, silicon, vanadium,manganese, selenium, selenite, boron, bismuth, borax, bauxite, gold,silver, hydroxylapatite, mica, quartz, steatite, talc, sulfur, andzircon.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the compositions may besubstantially free of added inactive compounds that serve merely asinert, excipient, and/or formulatory ingredients of the composition. Ina specific embodiment, the compositions of the present invention may besubstantially free of one or more of added compounds from the groupconsisting of magnesium stearate, silica, silicon dioxide, magnesiumsilicate, dicalcium phosphate, povidone, titanium dioxide, sodiumbenzoate, alpha lipoic acid, lutein, lycopene, cellulose, croscarmellosesodium, stearic acid, cellulose, hydroxylpropyl cellulose, hydroxypropylmethylcellulose, titanium dioxide, polydextrose, triacetin, dicalciumphosphate, polyethylene glycol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, mineral oil,methocel, sodium lauryl sulfate, and talc.

The kits and methods of the present invention may be comprised of acomposition comprising a combination of vitamins and minerals, in eitherchelated or non-chelated form, that work together with various metabolicsystems and physiological responses of the human body. The activeingredients are available from numerous commercial sources, and inseveral active forms or salts thereof, known to those of ordinary skillin the art. Hence, the compositions and methods of the present inventionare not limited to comprising or using any particular form of thevitamin or mineral ingredient described herein.

Omega-3 fatty acids, also known as (n-3) fatty acids, are long-chainpolyunsaturated fatty acids. Holub, CANADIAN MEDICAL ASSOCIATION JOURNAL166:608-615 (2002). Omega-3 fatty acids are characterized as essentialfatty acids (EFAs). Humans do not synthesize essential omega-3 fattyacids, and so are dependent upon dietary or supplemental sources forthis nutrient. EFAs are required for the formation of a variety ofeicosanoids, including prostaglandins, thromboxanes, prostacyclins, andleukotrienes. THE MERCK MANUAL 17th ed., pp. 2-3, 32-33 (1999). EFAs areneeded for many physiologic processes including maintaining theintegrity of the skin, maintaining the structure of cell membranes, andsynthesizing prostaglandins and leukotrienes. Id.

Omega-3 fatty acids are important in cardiovascular care. Increasing theintake of omega-3 fatty acids through diet and supplementation resultsin a corresponding increase of these omega-3 fatty acids in tissue,cellular lipids, and circulatory lipids along with a simultaneousreduction in omega-6 fatty acids. See Holub supra. This fatty acid shiftalters the physicochemical properties of cell membranes and theirfunctioning, modifies cell signaling, gene expression and biosyntheticprocesses and eicosanoid formations. Id. This shift leads to beneficialcardiovascular effects. Benefits include decreased platelet adhesivenessand aggregation, overall reduction in thrombogenicity, antiatherogeniceffects, lowered levels of blood triglycerides (elevated levels oftriglycerides are linked with a progressively increased risk of ischemicheart disease), lowered blood pressure levels, reduction in arrhythmia,and a decreased the risk of coronary artery disease. Kirs-Etherton,CIRCULATION 106:2747-2757, 2002; See also THE MERCK MANUAL at 3; Holubsupra.

The use of omega-3 fatty acids in dietary supplements specifically forwomen is suggested for counteracting breast cancer progression. B AStoll, BR J NUTR 87(3):193-198 (2002). Long-chain omega-3 fatty acidsconsistently inhibit the growth of human breast cancer cells in cultureand in animal models. Id.

Dietary intake of omega-3 fatty acids has also been positivelycorrelated with neuropsychiatric health in several studies. G S Young, RThomas et al., REPROD NUTR DEV 45:549-558, 2005. Societies with highlevels of omega-3 fatty acids show lower rates of major depression (J RHibbeln and N. Salem, AM J CLIN NUTR 62:1-9 (1995)), and bipolar disease(S. Noaghiul and J R Hibbeln, AM J PSYCHIATRY 160:2222-2227 (2003)). Theomega-3 fatty acids are necessary to complete the development of theinfant's brain, retina, and other organs including the skin. C AFrancois, W E Connor et al., AM J CLIN NUTR 77:226-233, 2003.

Docahexaenoic acid (or docosahexaenoic acid, DHA), a major component offish oil, is one example of an omega-3 fatty acid. Id. This omega-3fatty acid has been shown to be of particular importance duringpregnancy. Adequate DHA is vital for optimal fetal and infantbrain/cognitive development, as well as for normal brain functionthroughout life. F M Rioux, O. Hernell et al., ACTA PAEDIATR95(2):137-144 (2006). The sleep patterns of infants born to mothers withhigher plasma phospholipid DHA suggest greater central nerve systemmaturity. S R Cheruku, C J Lammi-Keefe et al., AM J CLIN NUTR76:608-613, 2002. Additionally, children with Attention DeficitHyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) have been shown to have abnormal levels ofDHA. E A Mitchell, M. Manku et al., CLIN PEDIATR 26:406-411 (1986); L JStevens, J R Burgess et al., PHYSIOL BEHAV 59:915-920 (1996). Studieshave indicated a correlation between maternal DHA intake andintelligence quotient in the child. The direct correlation between braindevelopment and systemic DHA status is secondary to the fact that DHA istaken up by the brain in preference to other fatty acids. Adequate DHAlevels in pregnancy have also been correlated with optimizing the lengthof gestation and decreasing the risk of neurodevelopmentalpsychopathology. These critical findings have prompted the NationalInstitute of Health (NIH) to recommend that pregnant women consume atleast 300 mg of omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy. N. Neurenger etal., NUTR REV 44:285-294 (1986); G. Hornstra et al., AM J CLIN NUTR71:285 S-291S (2000); I B Helland et al., PEDIATRICS 111:E39-E44 (2003);F. Facchinetti et al., EUR REV MED PHARMACOL SCI 9(1):41-48 (2005); R KMcNamara et al., PROSTAGLANDINS LEUKOT ESSENT FATTY ACIDS (29 Aug.2006).

DHA is also important for the development of the infant retina andimproving the visual acuity of the infant. C A Francois, W E Connor etal., AM J CLIN NUTR 77:226-233 (2003). Preterm infants have a more rapiddevelopment of visual acuity if fed human milk or formula enriched withDHA, compared to standard formula. M H Jorgensen, K F Michaelsen et al.,LIPIDS 31(1):99-105 (1996). An increase in visual acuity has also beenobserved to develop more rapidly in term infants breast-fed from motherswhose diets are supplemented with DHA. Id.

In addition to the aforementioned benefit of DHA to the developingchild, this essential fatty acid has also shown multiplehealth-promoting properties in adults. These include anti-thrombotic,anti-inflammatory and anti-atherosclerotic activity, all of which reducethe risk of heart disease. M Laidlaw and B J Holub, AM J CLIN NUTR77:37-42 (2003). Inverse relationships have also been found betweensystemic levels of omega-3 fatty acids and incidence and severity ofmood disorders and depression, including postpartum depression.Therefore, introduction of omega-3 during pregnancy has a doublebenefit, to both child and mother. F B Hu et al., JAMA 287(14):1815-1821(2002); C. Von Schacky et al., ANN INTERN MED 130:554-562 (1999); G.Parker et al., AM J PSYCHIATRY 163(6):969-978 (2006); S J Otto et al.,PROSTAGLANDINS LEUKOT ESSENT FATTY ACIDS 69(3):237-243 (2003).

For women, DHA is particularly useful in counteracting the progressionof breast cancer. Human breast cancer cells exposed to DHA exhibit anincrease in cell death by apoptosis. B A Stoll, BR J NUTR 87(3):193-198,2002. DHA also inhibits cyclooxygenase-2, which promotes mammarycarcinogenesis. Id. DHA supplementation during pregnancy has also beenshown to increase the length of gestation by about six days, helpingmothers carry to a healthy full term. C M Smuts et al., OBSTETRICS ANDGYNECOLOGY 101(3):469-479 (2003).

Intake of omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA not only leads to theirincorporation into cell membrane lipids (B A Stoll, BR J NUTR87(3):193-198 (2002)), but also storage in adipose tissue and secretionin breast milk. C A Francois, W E Connor et al., AM J CLIN NUTR77:226-233 (2003). Although the human body can derive a limited amountof DHA from another fatty acid known as alpha-linolenic acid, thisprocess is inefficient for optimal needs. A rich dietary source ofdirect DHA is fish. Id. However, some lactating women are vegetarians,have limited access to fish or simply do not like fish. A furtherproblem with encouraging increased fish intake in pregnancy is that mostspecies contain methyl mercury (MeHg) in various amounts. MeHg is apotent neurotoxin that can increase the risk of retarded cognitivedevelopment. This concern prompted both the United States EnvironmentalProtection Agency (2004) and the Food and Drug Administration (2001) toissue advisories recommending that pregnant women modify their fishconsumption. These recommendations have resulted in a reduced intake offish during pregnancy, thus helping to protect against fetal MeHgrelated harm. However, this has concurrently reduced maternal intake ofDHA. In fact, a recent dietary study of over 100 pregnant or nursingwomen in the United States showed an astonishingly low intake of DHA onaverage (60-80 mg/day), and a dangerously low percentage (<2) consumedthe aforementioned recommended intake of 300 mg/day of DHA as set forthby the NIH. J T Cohen et al., AM J PREV MED, 29:353-365 (2005); U.S.Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Environmental ProtectionAgency, “What you need to know about mercury in fish and shellfish,”Report EPA-823-F-04-009 (March 2004); E. Oken et al., OBSTET GYNECOL102:346-351 (2003).

In these cases nutritional supplements would provide the DHA necessaryfor physiological benefits. Thus dietary supplementation of DHA to,e.g., a pregnant woman or nursing mother is a viable means of providingphysiologically active DHA not only to the mother but also the infant.

DHA may be obtained in solid form, such as in a whole-cell microbialproduct, or in liquid form, such as in an oil. An example of DHA in oilform is DHASCO®-T vegetable oil from micro-algae (Martek BiosciencesCorporation, Columbia, Md.). Modes of producing DHA, or food products oradditives containing high concentrations of DHA, are known in the art.Some of these are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,977,167; 5.407,957;5,492,938; 5,340,594; 6,410,281; 6,451,567; 5,340,594; 6,607,900;6,410,281; 6,451,567; and in U.S. Patent Application Publication Nos.2003/0060509 A1; 2006/0099693 A1; 2005/0170479 A1; and 2006/0165735 A1,the disclosure of all of which are expressly incorporated by referencein their entireties.

In one embodiment, the methods and kits of the present invention mayinclude omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA in amounts ranging from about 50mg to about 150 mg. In another embodiment, the methods and kits of thepresent invention may include omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA in amountsranging from about 80 mg to about 120 mg. In yet another embodiment, themethods and kits of the present invention may include omega-3 fattyacids such as DHA in amounts ranging from about 90 mg to about 110 mg.In a specific embodiment, the methods and kits of the present inventionmay include omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA in an amount of about 100mg.

Each of the active ingredient vitamins, minerals and fatty acids of thepresent invention is available from numerous commercial sources, and inseveral active forms or salts thereof, as known to those of ordinaryskill in the art. Hence, the methods and kits of the present inventionare not limited to comprising or using any particular form of thevitamin, mineral or fatty acid ingredient described herein. Each of thevitamins, minerals and fatty acids can be blended to form a singlecomposition or can form multiple compositions, which may beco-administered.

Nutrition is a constantly evolving health science. Nearly asproliferative as research findings correlating nutrients and diseaseprevention are findings demonstrating that supplementation with somenutrients can be counter-productive to the health needs of specificpopulations. In a specific embodiment, the methods and kits of thepresent invention may be substantially free of other added vitamins,minerals, and coenzymes.

The compositions of the present invention are preferably administered inamounts sufficient to supplement the nutritional needs of individuals inphysiologically stressful states, such as, for example, pregnancy,lactation, and any disease state.

A specific embodiment of the present invention may comprise swallowablecompositions. Swallowable compositions are well known in the art and arethose that do not readily dissolve when placed in the mouth and may beswallowed whole without any chewing or discomfort. In a specificembodiment of the present invention, the swallowable compositions mayhave a shape containing no sharp edges and a smooth, uniform andsubstantially bubble free outer coating.

A specific embodiment of the present invention may comprise swallowablecompositions comprising vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E,folic acid, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂, vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂, niacin,calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and copper, in caplet form. Anotherspecific embodiment of the present invention may comprise swallowablecompositions comprising omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA enclosed withina gel-cap. Another specific embodiment of the present invention maycomprise compositions comprising omega-3 fatty acids such as DHA inliquid or oil form, in a bottle.

In another specific embodiment, the swallowable compositions of thepresent invention may be in the form of gel-caps. Gel-caps consist of afiller comprising one or more pharmaceutically active materialsdissolved or dispersed in an appropriate liquid vehicle encapsulated ina gelatin shell generally comprising gelatin together with a plasticizersuch as glycerin or sorbitol. The filler material may comprise, forexample, polyethylene glycols. Gel-caps are well known to those ofordinary skill in the art. See for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,780,316;5,419,916; 5,641,512; and 6,589,536. If more than one caplet or gel-capis used, each individual caplet or gel-cap may be identical to the othercaplets or gel-caps, or each may contain only some of the ingredients ofthe composition, so that the combination of the different caplets orgel-caps comprises a composition of the present invention. Anotherexemplary dosage of the compositions of the present invention mayconsist of one or more lozenges, the composition of each lozengepreferably being identical to each other lozenge.

To prepare the swallowable compositions in caplet form, each of theactive ingredients may be combined in intimate admixture with a suitablecarrier according to conventional compounding techniques. The carriermay take a wide variety of forms depending upon the form of thepreparation desired for administration; e.g., oral, sublingual, nasal,via topical patch, or parenteral. In a specific embodiment ofswallowable compositions of the present invention, the surface of thecompositions may be coated with a polymeric film. Such a film coatinghas several beneficial effects. First, it reduces the adhesion of thecompositions to the inner surface of the mouth, thereby increasing thepatient's ability to swallow the compositions. Second, the film may aidin masking the unpleasant taste of certain drugs. Third, the filmcoating may protect the compositions of the present invention fromatmospheric degradation. Polymeric films that may be used in preparingthe swallowable compositions of the present invention include vinylpolymers such as polyvinylpyrrolidone, polyvinyl alcohol and acetate,cellulosics such as methyl and ethyl cellulose, hydroxyethyl celluloseand hydroxylpropyl methylcellulose, acrylates and methacrylates,copolymers such as the vinyl-maleic acid and styrene-maleic acid types,and natural gums and resins such as zein, gelatin, shellac and acacia.Pharmaceutical carriers and formulations for swallowable compounds arewell known to those of ordinary skill in the art. See generally, e.g.,HANDBOOK OF PHARMACEUTICAL EXCIPIENTS 2nd ed., Wade and Waller eds.(1994).

A specific embodiment of the present invention may comprise swallowablecompositions. Swallowable compositions are well known in the art and arethose that do not readily dissolve when placed in the mouth and may beswallowed whole without any chewing or discomfort. In a specificembodiment of the present invention the swallowable compositions mayhave a shape containing no sharp edges and a smooth, uniform andsubstantially bubble free outer coating.

To prepare the swallowable compositions of the present invention, eachof the active ingredients may be combined in intimate admixture with asuitable carrier according to conventional compounding techniques. In aspecific embodiment of the swallowable compositions of the presentinvention, the surface of the compositions may be coated with apolymeric film. Such a film coating has several beneficial effects.First, it reduces the adhesion of the compositions to the inner surfaceof the mouth, thereby increasing the patient's ability to swallow thecompositions. Second, the film may aid in masking the unpleasant tasteof certain drugs. Third, the film coating may protect the compositionsof the present invention from atmospheric degradation. Polymeric filmsthat may be used in preparing the swallowable compositions of thepresent invention include vinyl polymers such as polyvinylpyrrolidone,polyvinyl alcohol and acetate, cellulosics such as methyl and ethylcellulose, hydroxyethyl cellulose and hydroxylpropyl methylcellulose,acrylates and methacrylates, copolymers such as the vinyl-maleic acidand styrene-maleic acid types, and natural gums and resins such as zein,gelatin, shellac and acacia. Pharmaceutical carriers and formulationsfor swallowable compounds are well known to those of ordinary skill inthe art. See generally, e.g., HANDBOOK OF PHARMACEUTICAL EXCIPIENTS 2nded., Wade and Waller eds. (1994).

In a specific embodiment of the present invention, the compositions maycomprise chewable compositions. Chewable compositions are those thathave a palatable taste and mouthfeel, are relatively soft and quicklybreak into smaller pieces and begin to dissolve after chewing such thatthey are swallowed substantially as a solution.

In order to create chewable compositions, certain ingredients should beincluded to achieve the attributes just described. For example, chewablecompositions should include ingredients that create pleasant flavor andmouthfeel and promote relative softness and dissolvability in the mouth.The following discussion describes ingredients that may help to achievethese characteristics.

Chewable compositions preferably have a pleasant or palatable flavor.Palatable flavors may be achieved by including sweetening agents and/orflavorants. Sweetening agents that may be included in the compositionsof the present invention include, by way of example and withoutlimitation, sucrose, fructose, high fructose corn syrup, dextrose,saccharin sodium, maltodextrin, aspartame, potassium acesulfame,neohesperidin dihydrochalcone, sucralose, monoammonium glycyrrhizinate,and others known to those of ordinary skill in the art. As used herein,the term “flavorant” means natural or artificial compounds used toimpart a pleasant flavor and often odor to a pharmaceutical preparation.Flavorants that may be used in the present invention include, forexample and without limitation, natural and synthetic flavor oils,flavoring aromatics, extracts from plants, leaves, flowers, and fruitsand combinations thereof. Such flavorants include, by way of example andwithout limitation, anise oil, cinnamon oil, vanilla, vanillin, cocoa,chocolate, natural chocolate flavor, menthol, grape, peppermint oil, oilof wintergreen, clove oil, bay oil, anise oil, eucalyptus, thyme oil,cedar leave oil, oil of nutmeg, oil of sage, oil of bitter almonds,cassia oil; citrus oils, such as lemon, orange, lime and grapefruitoils; and fruit essences, including apple, pear, peach, berry,wildberry, date, blueberry, kiwi, strawberry, raspberry, cherry, plum,pineapple, and apricot. All of these flavorants are commerciallyavailable. In a specific embodiment of the present invention, flavorantsthat may be used include natural berry extracts and natural mixed berryflavor, as well as citric and malic acid. The amount of flavorants usedmay depend on a number of factors, including desired tastecharacteristics. While not necessary, one or more of these sweeteningagents and/or flavorants also may be included in the swallowablecompositions of the present invention.

In addition to having a palatable flavor, chewable compositions alsoshould have a pleasant mouthfeel. A variety of ingredients can beincluded in the compositions of the present invention to enhancemouthfeel.

In the chewable compositions of the present invention, sugars such aswhite sugar, corn syrup, sorbitol (solution), maltitol (syrup),oligosaccharide, isomaltooligosaccharide, sucrose, fructose, lactose,glucose, lycasin, xylitol, lactitol, erythritol, mannitol, isomaltose,dextrose, polydextrose, dextrin, compressible cellulose, compressiblehoney, compressible molasses and mixtures thereof may be added toimprove mouthfeel and palatability. Further, by way of example andwithout limitation, fondant or gums such as gelatin, agar, arabic gum,guar gum, and carrageenan may be added to improve the chewiness of thecompositions. Fatty materials that may be included in the presentinvention include, by way of example and without limitation, vegetableoils (including palm oil, palm hydrogenated oil, corn germ hydrogenatedoil, castor hydrogenated oil, cotton-seed oil, olive oil, peanut oil,palm olein oil, and palm stearin oil), animal oils (including refinedoil and refined lard whose melting point ranges from 30° to 42° C.),Cacao fat, margarine, butter, and shortening.

Alkyl polysiloxanes (commercially available polymers sold in a varietyof molecular weight ranges and with a variety of different substitutionpatterns) also may be used in the present invention to enhance thetexture, the mouthfeel, or both of the chewable nutritional supplementcompositions described herein. By “enhance the texture” it is meant thatthe alkyl polysiloxane improves one or more of the stiffness, thebrittleness, and the chewiness of the chewable supplement, relative tothe same preparation lacking the alkyl polysiloxane. By “enhance themouthfeel” it is meant that the alkyl polysiloxane reduces the grittytexture of the supplement once it has liquefied in the mouth, relativeto the same preparation lacking the alkyl polysiloxane.

Alkyl polysiloxanes generally comprise a silicon and oxygen-containingpolymeric backbone with one or more alkyl groups pending from thesilicon atoms of the back bone. Depending upon their grade, they canfurther comprise silica gel. Alkyl polysiloxanes are generally viscousoils. Exemplary alkyl polysiloxanes that can be used in the swallowable,chewable or dissolvable compositions of the present invention include,by way of example and without limitation, monoalkyl or dialkylpolysiloxanes, wherein the alkyl group is independently selected at eachoccurrence from a C₁-C₆-alkyl group optionally substituted with a phenylgroup. A specific alkyl polysiloxane that may be used is dimethylpolysiloxane (generally referred to as simethicone). More specifically,a granular simethicone preparation designated simethicone GS may beused. Simethicone GS is a preparation which contains 30% simethiconeUSP. Simethicone USP contains not less than about 90.5% by weight(CH₃)₃—Si {OSi(CH₃)₂}CH₃ in admixture with about 4.0% to about 7.0% byweight SiO₂.

To prevent the stickiness that can appear in conventional chewablecompositions and to facilitate conversion of the active ingredients toemulsion or suspension upon taking, the compositions of the presentinvention, may further comprise emulsifiers such as, by way of exampleand without limitation, glycerin fatty acid ester, sorbitanmonostearate, sucrose fatty acid ester, lecithin and mixtures thereof.In a specific embodiment, one or more of such emulsifiers may be presentin an amount of about 0.01% to about 5.0%, by weight of the administeredcompositions. If the level of emulsifier is lower or higher than thesaid range, the emulsification cannot be realized, or wax value willrise.

Chewable compositions should begin to break and dissolve in the mouthshortly after chewing begins such that the compositions can be swallowedsubstantially as a solution. The dissolution profile of chewablecompositions may be enhanced by including rapidly water-soluble fillersand excipients. Rapidly water-soluble fillers and excipients preferablydissolve within about 60 seconds of being wetted with saliva. Indeed, itis contemplated that if enough water-soluble excipients are included inthe compositions of the present invention, they may become dissolvablerather than chewable composition forms. Examples of rapidly watersoluble fillers suitable for use with the present invention include, byway of example and without limitation, saccharides, amino acids and thelike. In a specific embodiment, the saccharide may be a mono-, di- oroligosaccharide. Examples of saccharides which may be added to thecompositions of the present invention include, by way of example andwithout limitation, sorbitol, glucose, dextrose, fructose, maltose andxylitol (all monosaccharides); and sucrose, lactose, glucose, galactoseand mannitol (all disaccharides). Other suitable saccharides areoligosaccharides. Examples of oligosaccharides are dextrates andmaltodextrins. Other water soluble excipients that may be used with thepresent invention include, by way of example and without limitation,amino acids such as alanine, arginine, aspartic acid, asparagine,cysteine, glutamic acid, glutamine, glycine, histidine, isoleucine,leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, proline, serine, threonine,tryptophan, tyrosine and valine.

Disintegrants also may be included in the compositions of the presentinvention in order to facilitate dissolution. Disintegrants, includingpermeabilising and wicking agents, are capable of drawing water orsaliva up into the compositions which promotes dissolution from theinside as well as the outside of the compositions. Such disintegrants,permeabilising and/or wicking agents that may be used in the presentinvention include by way of example and without limitation, starchessuch as corn starch, potato starch, pre-gelatinized and modifiedstarches thereof, cellulosic agents such as Ac-di-sol, montmorriloniteclays, cross-linked PVP, sweeteners, bentonite, microcrystallinecellulose, croscarmellose sodium, alginates, sodium starch glycolate,gums such as agar, guar, locust bean, karaya, pectin, Arabic, xanthanand tragacanth, silica with a high affinity for aqueous solvents, suchas colloidal silica, precipitated silica, maltodextrins,beta-cyclodextrins, polymers, such as carbopol, and cellulosic agentssuch as hydroxymethylcellulose, hydroxypropylcellulose andhydroxyopropylmethylcellulose.

Finally, dissolution of the compositions may be facilitated by includingrelatively small particle sizes of the ingredients used.

In addition to those described above, any appropriate fillers andexcipients may be utilized in preparing the swallowable compositions ofthe present invention so long as they are consistent with the objectivesdescribed herein. For example, binders are substances used to causeadhesion of powder particles in granulations. Such compounds appropriatefor use in the present invention include, by way of example and withoutlimitation, acacia, compressible sugar, gelatin, sucrose and itsderivatives, maltodextrin, cellulosic polymers, such as ethylcellulose,hydroxypropylcellulose, hydroxypropylmethyl cellulose,carboxymethylcellulose sodium, and methylcellulose, acrylic polymers,such as insoluble acrylate ammoniomethacrylate copolymer, polyacrylateor polymethacrylic copolymer, povidones, copovidones, polyvinylalcohols,alginic acid, sodium alginate, starch, pregelatinized starch, guar gum,polyethylene glycol, and others known to those of ordinary skill in theart.

Diluents also may be included in the compositions of the presentinvention in order to enhance the granulation of the compositions.Diluents can include, by way of example and without limitation,microcrystalline cellulose, sucrose, dicalcium phosphate, starches, andpolyols of less than 13 carbon atoms, such as mannitol, xylitol,sorbitol, maltitol, and pharmaceutically acceptable amino acids, such asglycin, and their mixtures.

Lubricants are substances used in composition formulations that reducefriction during composition compression. Lubricants that may be used inthe present invention include, by way of example and without limitation,stearic acid, calcium stearate, magnesium stearate, zinc stearate, talc,mineral and vegetable oils, benzoic acid, poly-(ethylene glycol),glyceryl behenate, stearyl fumarate, and others known to those ofordinary skill in the art.

Glidants improve the flow of powder blends during manufacturing andminimize composition weight variation. Glidants that may be used in thepresent invention include by way of example and without limitation,silicon dioxide, colloidal or fumed silica, magnesium stearate, calciumstearate, stearic acid, cornstarch, talc and others known to those ofordinary skill in the art.

Colorants also may be included in the nutritional supplementcompositions of the present invention. As used herein, the term“colorant” includes compounds used to impart color to pharmaceuticalpreparations. Such compounds include, by way of example and withoutlimitation, FD&C Red No. 3, FD&C Red No. 8, FD&C Red No. 20, FD&C YellowNo. 6, FD&C Blue No. 2, FD&C Green No. 5, FD&C Orange No. 5, caramel,and ferric oxide, red and others known to those of ordinary skill in theart. Coloring agents also can include pigments, dyes, tints, titaniumdioxide, natural coloring agents such as grape skin extract, beet redpowder, beta carotene, annato, carmine, turmeric, paprika, and othersknown to those of ordinary skill in the art. It is recognized that nocolorant is required in the nutritional supplement compositionsdescribed herein.

If desired, compositions may be sugar coated or enteric coated bystandard techniques.

The swallowable compositions of the present invention may be preparedusing conventional methods and materials known in the pharmaceuticalart. For example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,215,754 and 4,374,082 relate tomethods for preparing swallowable compositions. Further, allpharmaceutical carriers and formulations described herein are well knownto those of ordinary skill in the art, and determination of workableproportions in any particular instance will generally be within thecapability of the person skilled in the art. Details concerning any ofthe excipients of the invention may be found in WADE & WALLER, supra.All active ingredients, fillers and excipients are commerciallyavailable from companies such as Aldrich Chemical Co., FMC Corp, Bayer,BASF, Alexi Fres, Witco, Mallinckrodt, Rhodia, ISP, and others.

A specific embodiment of the present invention may comprise swallowablecompositions packaged in blister packs. Blister packs as packaging forswallowable compositions are well known to those of ordinary skill inthe art. Blister packs may be made of a transparent plastic sheet whichas been formed to carry a matrix of depression or blisters. One or moreswallowable compositions are received in each depression or blister. Afoil or plastic backing is then adhered across the plane of the sheetsealing the swallowable compositions in their respective blisters.Examples of materials used for the blister packs include, but are notlimited to, aluminum, paper, polyester, PVC, and polypropylene.Alternative materials are known to those of ordinary skill in the art.To remove a swallowable composition, the depression material is pressedin and the composition is pushed through the backing material. Multipleblister packs may be placed in an outer package, often a box or cartonfor sale and distribution.

Another specific embodiment of the present invention may compriseswallowable compositions packaged in bottles. The bottle may be glass orplastic in form with a pop or screw top cap. Bottle packaging forcompositions in swallowable form are well known to those of ordinaryskill in the art.

Additionally, the unit dose forms may be individually wrapped, packagedas multiple units on paper strips or in vials of any size, withoutlimitation. The swallowable, chewable or dissolvable compositions of theinvention may be packaged in unit dose, rolls, bulk bottles, blisterpacks and combinations thereof, without limitation.

Other objectives, features and advantages of the present invention willbecome apparent from the following specific examples. The specificexamples, while indicating specific embodiments of the invention, areprovided by way of illustration only. Accordingly, the present inventionalso includes those various changes and modifications within the spiritand scope of the invention that may become apparent to those skilled inthe art from this detailed description. The invention will be furtherillustrated by the following non-limiting examples.

EXAMPLES

Without requiring further elaboration, it is believed that one skilledin the art, using the preceding description, can utilize the presentinvention to the fullest extent. The following examples are illustrativeonly, and not limiting of the remainder of the disclosure in any waywhatsoever.

Example 1

A first composition of the following formulation is prepared in capletform, including the appropriate excipients, by standard methods known tothose of ordinary skill in the art:

Vitamin A (beta carotene)  2700 IU Vitamin D (cholecalciferol)   400 IUVitamin C (ascorbic acid)   70 mg Vitamin E (dl-alpha-tocopherylacetate)   30 IU Folic acid  1.0 mg Vitamin B₁ (thiamine mononitrate) 1.6 mg Vitamin B₂ (riboflavin)  1.8 mg Vitamin B₆ (pyridoxinehydrochloride)  2.5 mg Vitamin B₁₂ (cyanocobalamin)   12 mcg Niacin(niacinamide)   18 mg Calcium (calcium carbonate)   100 mg Iron (ferrousfumarate)   65 mg Magnesium (magnesium oxide)   25 mg Zinc (zinc oxide)  25 mg Copper (copper oxide)  2.0 mg

A second composition of the following formulation is prepared in gel-capform by standard methods known to those of ordinary skill in the art:

DHA, an omega-3 fatty acid 100 mg

Example 2

A study is undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of the compositionsof the present invention in the treatment of patients. The objective ofthe study is to determine whether oral intake of the compositionsresults in an improvement of the nutritional status of patients withregard to the specific vitamins and minerals contained in theadministered compositions.

A double-blind, placebo controlled study is conducted over a six-monthperiod. A total of 120 subjects (60 pregnant women entering the secondtrimester of pregnancy and 60 lactating women), aged 20-35 years, arechosen for the study. An initial assessment of the nutritional status ofeach woman is conducted. Vitamin A, beta carotene, niacin and vitamin B₆are measured using high performance liquid chromatography. Erythrocytetransketolase activity is used to measure vitamin B₁ levels. Vitamin B₂levels are determined by assessment of erythrocyte glutathione reductaseactivity. Vitamin B₉ is measured by radioimmunoassay (RIA), specificallyThe Solid Phase No Biol Folic Acid Kit (Diagnostic Products, LosAngeles, Calif.). Vitamin B₁₂ is measured by RIA using human intrinsicfactor as a binder. Vitamin C levels are measured by spectrophotometricand colorimetric methods. Vitamin D is measured using an extractiondouble-antibody RIA (Dia Sorin, Inc., Stillwater, Minn.). Serum calciumis measured by the ionized calcium test. The peroxide hemolysis test isused to determine vitamin E status. Iron levels are measured usingstandard spectrophotometry. Similarly, magnesium levels are measured byabsorbance of a magnesium chelate with xylidl blue at 660 nM. Zinclevels are assessed using flame atomic absorption spectrometry (PerkinsElmer 460, Norwalk, Conn.). Copper is measured by enzyme tests; eithererythrocyte glutathione peroxidase or erythrocyte superoxide dismutase.DHA is measured and quantified using gas chromatography procedures.

Additionally, total serum homocysteine levels are determined byextraction on the Multi-Prep® gravity series GVSA-100 column, a stronganion exchange gravity flow column, and measurement by gaschromatography/mass spectrometry. Biochemical Diagnostics, Austin, Tex.

The 120 subjects are separated into four separate groups of 30 women. Ina first group comprising only pregnant women and in a second groupcomprising only lactating women, each subject is co-administered onedosage form of the first composition and one dosage form of the secondcomposition as described in Example 1, once a day. In a third groupcomprising only pregnant women and in a fourth group comprising onlylactating women, each subject is co-administered two different placebodosage forms, once a day. No other nutritional supplements are taken bythe subjects during the assessment period.

An assessment of the nutritional status of each woman is conductedutilizing the methods described above at two-week intervals for a threemonth period. The data is evaluated using multiple linear regressionanalysis and a standard t-test. In each analysis, the baseline value ofthe outcome variable is included in the model as a covariant. Treatmentby covariant interaction effects is tested by the method outlined byWeigel and Narvaez, CONTROLLED CLINICAL TRIALS 12:378-94 (1991). Ifthere are no significant interaction effects, the interaction terms areremoved from the model. The regression model assumptions of normalityand homogeneity of variance of residuals are evaluated by inspection ofthe plots of residuals versus predicted values. Detection of thetemporal onset of effects is done sequentially by testing for thepresence of significant treatment effects at 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6months, proceeding to the earlier time in sequence only when significanteffects have been identified at each later time period. Changes from thebaseline within each group are evaluated using paired t-tests. Inaddition, analysis of variance is performed on all baseline measurementsand measurable subject characteristics to assess homogeneity betweengroups. All statistical procedures are conducted using the StatisticalAnalysis System (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, N.C.). An alpha level of 0.05is used in all statistical tests

A statistically significant improvement in the nutritional status ofvitamin, mineral, and DHA levels measured is observed in the treatedsubjects over the controls upon completion of the study. Homocysteinelevels in women receiving supplements remain unelevated. Therefore, thestudy confirms that oral administration of the compositions of thepresent invention is effective in improving the nutritional status ofpatients. The length of gestation is increased by approximately six daysin women receiving supplements, due to DHA intake, and theirhomocysteine levels are not elevated, due to folic acid intake, leadingto a better prognosis regarding risk of neural tube defects in theirinfants.

While specific embodiments of the present invention have been described,other and further modifications and changes may be made withoutdeparting from the spirit of the invention. All further and othermodifications and changes are included that come within the scope of theinvention as set forth in the claims. The disclosure of each publicationcited above is expressly incorporated by reference in its entirety tothe same extent as if each were incorporated by reference individually.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method comprising co-administering a firstcomposition comprising vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E, folicacid, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂, vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂, niacin, calcium,iron, magnesium, zinc, and copper to a patient and a second compositioncomprising omega-3 fatty acids to said patient.
 2. The method of claim1, wherein said omega-3 fatty acids comprise docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).3. The method of claim 1, wherein said first composition and said secondcomposition are co-administered at the same time.
 4. The method of claim1, wherein said first composition and said second composition areco-administered to said patient, one said composition before the othersaid composition, in either order.
 5. The method of claim 1, whereinsaid first composition is administered to said patient orally and saidsecond composition is administered to said patient orally.
 6. The methodof claim 1, wherein one or both of said first and said secondcomposition is in a swallowable form.
 7. The method of claim 1, whereinone or both of said first and said second composition is in a chewableform.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein one or both of said first andsaid second composition is in a dissolvable form.
 9. The method of claim1, wherein said vitamin A comprises acetate.
 10. The method of claim 1,wherein said vitamin B₁ comprises thiamine mononitrate.
 11. The methodof claim 1, wherein said vitamin B₆ comprises pyridoxine hydrochloride.12. The method of claim 1, wherein said folic acid comprises one or moreof the group consisting of vitamin B₉, folacin, metafolin, and folate.13. The method of claim 1, wherein said folic acid comprises one or morenatural derivatives of folate selected from the group consisting of(6S)-tetrahydrofolic acid or a polyglutamyl derivative thereof,5-methyl-(6S)-tetrahydrofolic acid or a polyglutamyl derivative thereof,5-formyl-(6S)-tetrahydrofolic acid or a polyglutamyl derivative thereof,10-formyl-(6R)-tetrahydrofolic acid or a polyglutamyl derivativethereof, 5,10-methylene-(6R)-tetrahydrofolic acid or a polyglutamylderivative thereof, 5,10-methenyl-(6R)-tetrahydrofolic acid or apolyglutamyl derivative thereof, and 5-formimino-(6S)-tetrahydrofolicacid or a polyglutamyl derivative thereof.
 14. The method of claim 1,wherein said vitamin B₁₂ comprises cyanocobalamin.
 15. The method ofclaim 1, wherein said vitamin C comprises ascorbic acid.
 16. The methodof claim 1, wherein said vitamin E comprises d-alpha tocopheryl acetate.17. The method of claim 1, wherein said vitamin E comprises d-alphatocopheryl succinate.
 18. The method of claim 1, wherein said ironcomprises ferrous fumarate.
 19. The method of claim 1, wherein saidmagnesium comprises magnesium oxide.
 20. The method of claim 1, whereinsaid zinc comprises zinc oxide.
 21. The method of claim 1, wherein saidfirst composition is substantially free of one or more of addedcompounds selected from the group consisting of vitamin A, vitamin D,vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂, vitamin B₆,vitamin B₁₂, niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and copper.
 22. Themethod of claim 1, wherein said first and said second compositions aresubstantially free of one or more of added active compounds selectedfrom the group consisting of lutein, lycopene, zeaxanthin, vitamin B₄,vitamin B₅, vitamin B₇, vitamin B₈, vitamin B₁₀, vitamin K, biotin,pantothenic acid, phosphorus, iodine, potassium, odorless garlic,coenzyme Q₁₀, 1-carnitine, grape seed extract, chloride, sodium, greentea extract, quercetin, fluoride, hawthorne berries, and alpha lipoicacid.
 23. The method of claim 1, wherein said first and said secondcompositions are substantially free of one or more of added minerals andcompounds selected from the group consisting of chromium, titanium,molybdenum, nickel, tin, silicon, vanadium, manganese, selenium,selenite, boron, bismuth, borax, bauxite, gold, silver, hydroxylapatite,mica, quartz, steatite, talc, sulfur, and zircon.
 24. The method ofclaim 1, wherein said first and said second compositions aresubstantially free of one or more of added inactive compounds selectedfrom the group consisting of magnesium stearate, silica, silicondioxide, magnesium silicate, dicalcium phosphate, povidone, titaniumdioxide, sodium benzoate, alpha lipoic acid, lutein, lycopene,cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, stearic acid, cellulose,hydroxylpropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, titaniumdioxide, polydextrose, triacetin, dicalcium phosphate, polyethyleneglycol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, mineral oil, methocel, sodium laurylsulfate, and talc.
 25. The method of claim 1, wherein said firstcomposition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier andsaid second composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptablecarrier.
 26. The method of claim 25, wherein said pharmaceuticallyacceptable carrier is one or more selected from the group consisting ofbinders, diluents, lubricants, glidants, colorants, emulsifiers,disintegrants, starches, water, oils, alcohols, preservatives andsugars.
 27. The method of claim 1, wherein said first compositionfurther comprises a sweetening agent and said second composition furthercomprises a sweetening agent.
 28. The method of claim 1, wherein saidfirst composition further comprises a flavorant and said secondcomposition further comprises a flavorant.
 29. The method of claim 1,wherein said first composition further comprises alkyl polysiloxane inan amount of about 0.05 weight percent to less than about 1.0 weightpercent of the said composition one, and said second composition furthercomprises alkyl polysiloxane in an amount of about 0.05 weight percentto less than about 1.0 weight percent of said second composition. 30.The method of claim 29, wherein said alkyl polysiloxane is in the formof dimethyl polysiloxane.
 31. The method of claim 1, wherein saidvitamin A is present in the range of about 1350 IU to about 4050 IU. 32.The method of claim 1, wherein said vitamin D is present in the range ofabout 200 IU to about 600 IU.
 33. The method of claim 1, wherein saidvitamin C is present in the range of about 35 mg to about 105 mg. 34.The method of claim 1, wherein said vitamin E is present in the range ofabout 15 IU to about 45 IU.
 35. The method of claim 1, wherein saidfolic acid is present in the range of about 0.5 mg to about 1.5 mg. 36.The method of claim 1, wherein said vitamin B₁ is present in the rangeof about 0.8 mg to about 2.4 mg.
 37. The method of claim 1, wherein saidvitamin B₂ is present in the range of about 0.9 mg to about 2.7 mg. 38.The method of claim 1, wherein said vitamin B₆ is present in the rangeof about 1.25 mg to about 3.75 mg.
 39. The method of claim 1, whereinsaid B₁₂ is present in the range of about 6 mcg to about 18 mcg.
 40. Themethod of claim 1, wherein said niacin is present in the range of about9 mg to about 27 mg.
 41. The method of claim 1, wherein said calcium ispresent in the range of about 50 mg to about 150 mg.
 42. The method ofclaim 1, wherein said iron is present in the range of about 32.5 mg toabout 97.5 mg.
 43. The method of claim 1, wherein said magnesium ispresent in the range of about 12.5 mg to about 37.5 mg.
 44. The methodof claim 1, wherein said zinc is present in the range of about 12.5 mgto about 37.5 mg.
 45. The method of claim 1, wherein said copper ispresent in the range of about 1 mg to about 3 mg.
 46. The method ofclaim 1, wherein said first composition comprises about 1350 IU to about4050 IU of vitamin A; about 200 IU to about 600 IU of vitamin D; about35 mg to about 105 mg of vitamin C; about 15 IU to about 45 IU ofvitamin E; about 0.5 mg to about 1.5 mg of folic acid; about 0.8 mg toabout 2.4 mg of vitamin B1; about 0.9 mg to about 2.7 mg of vitamin B2;about 1.25 mg to about 3.75 mg of vitamin B6; about 6 mcg to about 18mcg of vitamin B12; about 9 mg to about 27 mg of niacin; about 50 mg toabout 150 mg of calcium; about 32.5 mg to about 97.5 mg of iron; about12.5 mg to about 37.5 mg of magnesium; about 12.5 mg to about 37.5 mg ofzinc; and about 1 mg to about 3 mg of copper.
 47. The method of claim 1,wherein said first composition comprises about 2700 IU vitamin A; about400 IU vitamin D; about 70 mg vitamin C; about 30 IU vitamin E; about1.0 mg folic acid; about 1.6 mg vitamin B₁; about 1.8 mg vitamin B₂;about 2.5 mg vitamin B₆; about 12 mcg vitamin B₁₂; about 18 mg niacin;about 100 mg calcium; about 65 mg iron; about 25 mg magnesium; about 25mg zinc; and about 2 mg copper.
 48. The method of claim 1, wherein saidpatient is pregnant.
 49. The method of claim 1, wherein said patient islactating.
 50. The method of claim 1, wherein said patient hasnutritional deficiencies.
 51. The method of claim 50, wherein saidnutritional deficiencies are a result of pregnancy.
 52. The method ofclaim 50, wherein said nutritional deficiencies are a result oflactation.
 53. The method of claim 50, wherein said nutritionaldeficiencies are a result of elevated metabolic demand.
 54. The methodof claim 50, wherein said nutritional deficiencies are a result ofincreased plasma volume.
 55. The method of claim 1, wherein said patientis within a physiologically stressful state.
 56. The method of claim 55,wherein said physiologically stressful state is any disease state. 57.The method of claim 1, wherein said omega-3 fatty acids are enclosedwithin a gel-cap.
 58. The method of claim 1, wherein said secondcomposition is in liquid form.
 59. The method of claim 1, wherein saidomega-3 fatty acids are present in the amount of about 50 mg to about150 mg.
 60. The method of claim 1, wherein said omega-3 fatty acids arepresent in the amount of about 75 mg to about 125 mg.
 61. The method ofclaim 1, wherein said omega-3 fatty acids are present in the amount ofabout 90 mg to about 110 mg.
 62. The method of claim 1, wherein saidomega-3 fatty acids are present in the amount of about 100 mg.
 63. A kitcomprising: a first composition comprising vitamin A, vitamin D, vitaminC, vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂, vitamin B₆, vitaminB₁₂, niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc, and/or copper; and a secondcomposition comprising omega-3 fatty acids; wherein said first andsecond compositions are packaged for co-administration to a patient, inany order.
 64. The kit of claim 63, wherein said omega-3 fatty acidscomprise docosahexaenoic acid (DHA).
 65. The kit of claim 63, whereinsaid first composition and said second composition are co-administeredat the same time.
 66. The kit of claim 63, wherein said firstcomposition and said second composition are co-administered to saidpatient, one said composition before the other said composition, ineither order.
 67. The kit of claim 63, wherein said first composition isadministered to said patient orally and said second composition isadministered to said patient orally.
 68. The kit of claim 63, whereinone or both of said first and said second composition is in aswallowable form.
 69. The kit of claim 63, wherein one or both of saidfirst and said second composition is in a chewable form.
 70. The kit ofclaim 63, wherein one or both of said first and said second compositionis in a dissolvable form.
 71. The kit of claim 63, wherein said vitaminA comprises acetate.
 72. The kit of claim 63, wherein said vitamin B₁comprises thiamine mononitrate.
 73. The kit of claim 63, wherein saidvitamin B₆ comprises pyridoxine hydrochloride.
 74. The kit of claim 63,wherein said folic acid comprises one or more of the group consisting ofvitamin B₉, folacin, metafolin, and folate.
 75. The kit of claim 63,wherein said folic acid comprises one or more natural derivatives offolate selected from the group consisting of (6S)-tetrahydrofolic acidor a polyglutamyl derivative thereof, 5-methyl-(6S)-tetrahydrofolic acidor a polyglutamyl derivative thereof, 5-formyl-(6S)-tetrahydrofolic acidor a polyglutamyl derivative thereof, 10-formyl-(6R)-tetrahydrofolicacid or a polyglutamyl derivative thereof,5,10-methylene-(6R)-tetrahydrofolic acid or a polyglutamyl derivativethereof, 5,10-methenyl-(6R)-tetrahydrofolic acid or a polyglutamylderivative thereof, and 5-formimino-(6S)-tetrahydrofolic acid or apolyglutamyl derivative thereof.
 76. The kit of claim 63, wherein saidvitamin B₁₂ comprises cyanocobalamin.
 77. The kit of claim 63, whereinsaid vitamin C comprises ascorbic acid.
 78. The kit of claim 63, whereinsaid vitamin E comprises d-alpha tocopheryl acetate.
 79. The kit ofclaim 63, wherein said vitamin E comprises d-alpha tocopheryl succinate.80. The kit of claim 63, wherein said iron comprises ferrous fumarate.81. The kit of claim 63, wherein said magnesium comprises magnesiumoxide.
 82. The kit of claim 63, wherein said zinc comprises zinc oxide.83. The kit of claim 63, wherein said first composition is substantiallyfree of one or more of added compounds selected from the groupconsisting of vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin C, vitamin E, folic acid,vitamin B₁, vitamin B₂, vitamin B₆, vitamin B₁₂, niacin, calcium, iron,magnesium, zinc, and copper.
 84. The kit of claim 63, wherein said firstand said second compositions are substantially free of one or more ofadded active compounds selected from the group consisting of lutein,lycopene, zeaxanthin, vitamin B₄, vitamin B₅, vitamin B₇, vitamin B₈,vitamin B₁₀, vitamin K, biotin, pantothenic acid, phosphorus, iodine,potassium, odorless garlic, coenzyme Q₁₀, 1-carnitine, grape seedextract, chloride, sodium, green tea extract, quercetin, fluoride,hawthorne berries, and alpha lipoic acid.
 85. The kit of claim 63,wherein said first and said second compositions are substantially freeof one or more of added minerals and compounds selected from the groupconsisting of chromium, titanium, molybdenum, nickel, tin, silicon,vanadium, manganese, selenium, selenite, boron, bismuth, borax, bauxite,gold, silver, hydroxylapatite, mica, quartz, steatite, talc, sulfur, andzircon.
 86. The kit of claim 63, wherein said first and said secondcompositions are substantially free of one or more of added inactivecompounds selected from the group consisting of magnesium stearate,silica, silicon dioxide, magnesium silicate, dicalcium phosphate,povidone, titanium dioxide, sodium benzoate, alpha lipoic acid, lutein,lycopene, cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, stearic acid, cellulose,hydroxylpropyl cellulose, hydroxypropyl methylcellulose, titaniumdioxide, polydextrose, triacetin, dicalcium phosphate, polyethyleneglycol, polyvinylpyrrolidone, mineral oil, methocel, sodium laurylsulfate, and talc.
 87. The kit of claim 63, wherein said patient ispregnant.
 88. The kit of claim 63, wherein said patient is lactating.89. The kit of claim 63, wherein said omega-3 fatty acids are enclosedwithin a gel-cap.
 90. The kit of claim 63, wherein said secondcomposition is in liquid form.
 91. The kit of claim 63, wherein saidomega-3 fatty acids are present in the amount of about 50 mg to about150 mg.
 92. The kit of claim 63, wherein said omega-3 fatty acids arepresent in the amount of about 100 mg.
 93. The kit of claim 63, whereinsaid packaging is selected from the group consisting of bottles andblister packs.
 94. The kit of claim 93, wherein said blister packs aresold together and said blister packs comprise a first blister packcontaining said first composition and a second blister pack containingsaid second composition.
 95. The kit of claim 93, wherein said blisterpack contains both said first composition and said second compositionpaired together per unit dose.
 96. The kit of claim 93, wherein saidblister packs are sold separately and said blister packs comprise afirst blister pack containing said first composition and a secondblister pack containing said second composition.
 97. The kit of claim93, wherein said blister packs containing said first composition andsaid second composition are advertised as more effective ifco-administered.
 98. The kit of claim 97, wherein said advertisementsare selected from one or more of the group consisting of internet,print, and product packaging advertisements.
 99. A method comprisingproviding the kit of claim 63 to patients.